Obituary: David Noel Swingen

June 2, 1948 ~ July 20, 2022

David Noel Swingen of Sturgeon Bay died unexpectedly on July 20, 2022, at the age of 74. David was born June 2, 1948, in Stoughton, WI, to Dorothy Swingen (née Slinde) and Clarence Swingen. On December 7, 1979, he married Kelly Swingen (née Bluemle). In 1984, he and Kelly settled in Sturgeon Bay to be closer to family and to live in a small community where they happily raised their two sons, Joshua and Zachary. 

David worked as Production Manager at Sunshine House Inc. for 30 years. He was instrumental in creating the Production Department, procuring diverse employment from numerous area businesses and was known as a “wizard” in tailoring incoming work for employees. David absolutely loved working with individuals with special needs and disabilities and was beloved by the people he served.

Following his retirement he worked part-time at Door County Coop.

He was a past president of the Sturgeon Bay Lions Club and an active member for 25 years. David received the Melvin Jones Fellowship award, the highest form of recognition presented to those who embody humanitarian ideas consistent with the nature and purpose of Lionism. He also served for several years as president of the Door County Manufacturers Association. Always willing to lend a helping hand, he frequently volunteered to deliver meals for the Sturgeon Bay Masonic Lodge’s annual Steamboat Dinner. He thoroughly enjoyed the camaraderie he found in sports, particularly the many years he spent in an early morning basketball league. That passion was rivaled only by his love for golf. He belonged to several leagues and participated in many tournaments over the years. Along with his service, interests, and achievements, many will remember David chiefly for his sense of humor, which could light up any room he found himself in.

David is survived by his wife of 42 years, Kelly; his son, Zac; children from a previous marriage, Steve Swingen (daughter, Stephanie, and her mother, Cindy Swingen) and Nikki Swingen-Rindy (daughter, Sami) and their extended families; his sister, Gail McIntosh of Madison; brother, Greg (Karen) Swingen of Fort Atkinson; nephew, Brian (Kelly) Cook of Madison; sister-in-law, Josephine Guenzel of Sturgeon Bay and Florida (daughter, Renata Maniaci); along with many cousins and numerous friends.

David was preceded in death by his beloved son, Josh; parents; sister, Anita Cook; nephew, Dan Bain.

In honoring David’s wishes, no services will be held. The family strongly requests no flowers or food. If you feel so inclined, donations may be made in his memory to Sunshine House Inc. (55 W. Yew St. Sturgeon Bay, WI, 54235) or the Sturgeon Bay Lions Club (Don Ziegelbauer,137 N. 10th Pl Sturgeon Bay, WI, 54235).

Forbes Funeral Home in Sturgeon Bay is assisting the family. On-line condolences may be offered at forbesfuneralhome.com