Neal Swanson, 76, of La Porte, passed away peacefully at 2:03 p.m., Saturday, July 10, 2021 at Miller’s Health and Rehab, La Porte.

 

He was born January 17, 1945, in La Porte, Indiana, to Clifford Swanson Sr. and Margaret (Novreske) Swanson.

 

Neal graduated from La Porte High School in 1963. He then earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting in 1968 from Tri State University, Angola. Neal was a chess coach for La Porte Schools for more than 10 years. He was a Business Manager for La Porte Community School Corp. for over 30 years. He was a percussionist for the City Band and La Porte Symphony. Neal was also a member of St. Joseph Catholic Church, La Porte. He handmade fireworks including his invention of the Lampare. Neal was an annual attendee for Pyrotechnics Guild International Convention and he was a longtime member of PGI. He was also one of the founding members of the Heartland Pyrotechnics Association.

 

Surviving are his two sons, Warren (Hannah) Swanson of Federal Way, WA and Ben (Rachel) Swanson of Brookline, MA; three siblings, Linda (John) Erickson of La Porte, Kenny (Debbie) Swanson of Banning, CA and Sharon Buerger of Tucson, AZ; two grandchildren, Nathalie Swanson (Age 8) and Cecilia Swanson (Age 7); and numerous nieces and nephews.

 

Preceding in death were his parents; two brothers, Randall Swanson and Clifford J. Swanson Jr.; and former wife, Kay Swanson.

 

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 12 Noon, Saturday, July 17, 2021 at St. Joseph Catholic Church, 109 C St., La Porte, with Father Nate Edquist officiating.

Visitation and viewing will be held from 5 to 7 p.m., Friday, July 16, 2021 at Lakeview Funeral Home & Crematory, 247 W. Johnson Rd., La Porte, (219) 362-3100. Burial will follow the service at St. Joseph Cemetery, La Porte.

 

Please send condolences to the family at www.LakeviewFHC.com.