Donald Marvin Swendsen passed peacefully with his family at his side, June 17, 2010, at Careage of Whidbey, at the age of 74. He was born in Ironwood, Mich., on July 4, 1935, to Erling and Josephine Swendsen. Don moved to Everett with his family at the age of 8. Don attended Washington Grade School, North Junior High School and graduated from Everett High School in 1953. He went on to Everett Community College, receiving his Associates Degree.

In 1956, Don enlisted in the U.S. Navy and was commissioned as an ensign and assigned to duty as a Naval Aviator. He was married to the former Marjorie Sue Dixon on Sept. 22, 1958, in Barbers Point, Hawaii.

Don became a flight instructor. For many years he flew the Navy P-3A. He held duty stations in Hawaii, Pt. Mugu and NAS Whidbey Island. Don retired in September of 1976 as a Lt. Commander after 20 years of service. He was a highly decorated veteran of the Vietnam War and was awarded two air medals, the Navy Commendation Medal and the Vietnam Service Medal with four bronze stars. In July of 1977, Don and Marjorie moved to Oak Harbor, where they have resided for the past 33 years.

Don was a great outdoorsman. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, crabbing and clamming. He was a great cook. He enjoyed gardening and canning his own produce. He loved feeding the birds in his yard and doing crossword puzzles.

Don is survived by his wife of 52 years, Marjorie Sue Swendsen, at the family home and by one son, John, of Oak Harbor; granddaughters Alicia Swendsen of Auburn and Katie Rojas and husband Balta of Everett; and two great-grandchildren, Caylin and Damian Rojas. Three brothers, David Swendsen and wife Marian of Yacolt, Wash., Ken Swendsen and wife Joan of Everett and Larry Swendsen of Mount Vernon also survive.

Don requested no formal funeral services be conducted. Cremation was held with private family inurnment at a later date. Friends may sign the online guest book at www.burleyfuneralchapel.com. Arrangements entrusted to Burley Funeral Chapel.