LaVern A. ‘Vern’ Swartwout, 74, Minot, formerly of Deering, ND died Wednesday, June 28, 2023, in a Minot hospital.
LaVern was born September 13, 1948 in Minot, ND to Allen and Gladys (Hansen) Swartwout. He grew up in Deering and graduated from Deering High School in 1966. He continued his education at Minot State until moving to Seattle, Washington after securing a job with Boeing to build airplanes.
He returned to Minot in 1970 and married Charlotte Trudell on April 6. They were blessed with two sons, Corey and William. They made their home in Deering until 1979, when they moved to Minot.
Vern spent his professional career as a salesman in the food service industry with Gamble Robinson Foods now known as Food Services of America. He earned numerous sales awards during his 39 year career and was blessed with good customers. Vern made fast friends and customers, growing a network that sustained him both professionally and personally. He couldn’t go anywhere without knowing someone along the way. His ability to visit and relate to anyone was unmatched.
Vern loved the outdoors. He shared this gift with his boys. Summers were spent at the cabin in Parshall Bay in search of Sakakawea Walleyes and fall brought the chase of roosters, geese, ducks or a big buck. Many hands of pinochle were played and poker, even online, filled the remainder of his idle time at home. He will be remembered for tremendous ability to strike up a memorable conversation with anyone and he will be missed deeply by all who were blessed to share in his life.
Vern is survived by his loving wife of 53 years, Charlotte Swartwout, Minot; sons Corey (Aimee) Swartwout, Minot and Bill Swartwout, both of Minot; grandchildren Ashlee Swartwout, Minot, Hunter (fiancée Sarah Haynes) Swartwout, Denver, CO, Andrew Swartwout and Brenna Swartwout, both of Minot along with numerous nieces and nephews.
Vern was preceded in death by his parents, siblings Ramona Smith and Laurene Weber and nephew Don Smith.
Celebration of Vern Swartwout’s Life: 2:00 p.m. Thursday, July 6, 2023, at Bethany Lutheran Church, Minot.
Visitation: Wednesday, July 5, 2023 from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at the Thomas Family Funeral Home, Minot.
