Charles “Chuck” Lavern Swanson, age 80, of Rochester, was called home to be with his Lord and Savior at 12:31 a.m. on Thursday, February 5, 2026, at Memorial Hospital in South Bend, Indiana.
Chuck was born on December 6, 1945, in Rochester, Indiana, to Albert Lavern and Beverly (Dickson) Swanson. On September 15, 1990, in LaPorte, Indiana, he married Rose Mary Smith.
Their marriage was a blessing built on love, faith, and companionship.
Chuck proudly served his country in the United States Navy and later the United States Army, retiring after 28 years of honorable service. He later worked as a truck driver delivering homes for Fairmont Homes, taking pride in hard work and responsibility.
A devoted man of God, Chuck was a longtime member of Antioch Baptist Church in Rochester, Indiana. His faith guided his life and gave him strength through both joy and hardship. In his quieter moments, Chuck enjoyed painting and drawing, finding peace in creativity, and he had a lifelong love for cars.
He was deeply committed to the ministry of evangelism, finding his greatest fulfillment in personal outreach and the sharing of the Gospel. Often partnering with his close associate, Reverend Jerry Pittman, he dedicated himself to spiritual mentorship, ultimately guiding many individuals toward a lifelong commitment to their faith.
Chuck leaves behind his loving wife, Rose Mary Swanson of New Carlisle, Indiana; numerous stepchildren; step-grandchildren; step-great-grandchildren; step-great-great-grandchildren; and stepsisters, Donna Vehrs, Gilbert, Arizona, Margo Schrader, LaPorte, Indiana, all of whom were blessed to be part of his life. He was preceded in death by his parents; his cherished daughter, Tonya Rose Swanson; brother, Danny Swanson, step-brother, Gordon Keene, and step-grandson, Logan Kuntz. While we grieve his passing, we take comfort in knowing he is reunited with those who went before him and is now at peace in God’s eternal care.
Funeral services will be conducted at 3:00 P.M. Sunday, February 15, 2026, at Zimmerman Bros. Funeral Home, Rochester, Indiana with Pastor Jerry Pittman officiating. Friends may visit from 1:00 P.M. to 3:00 P.M. Sunday, February 15, 2026 at the funeral home. Military rites will be conducted at the funeral home by the Fulton County Veterans’ Honor Guard and U.S. Army. Burial will be at a later date at Athens Cemetery, Athens, Indiana. Online condolence may be expressed at www.zimmermanbrosfh.com
