Hugh Ernest Swimley

Hugh Ernest Swimley of Surprise, Ariz, passed away Dec. 26, 2016, at the age of 85 years. Hugh was born in Epping, N.D. to Clarence and Eleanor Swimley on Feb. 19, 1931, as the youngest of three children.

Upon graduation from Libby High School in 1949, Hugh worked for a short time for Libby Transfer before he enlisted in the U.S. Air Force and served in the Korean War as a tail gunner. After his discharge, Hugh attended Montana State University before entering the grocery business with Bud Adkins. He rose through the ranks of the grocery business and retired as the manager of the Libby Rosauers Supermarket. Hugh married the love of his life, Alison (Rude) Swimley on Dec. 30, 1959 in Devil’s Lake, N.D.. Together, they raised their two sons in Libby, where they were proud to be an active part of the community.

Hugh enjoyed golfing, reading, crossword puzzles and continuing fellowship with his cohorts, including the Libby Volunteer Fire Department and the Libby business community. Hugh remained active in the Lutheran faith his entire life.

Those who knew Hugh will miss his quick wit and good humor. Hugh was preceded in death by his parents and his brother Ralph (Bud) Swimley of Libby. Hugh will be greatly missed by his wife of 57 years Alison, his son, Brett (Susan) and grandchildren Kurt, Rachael, and Ryan, his son Bryce (Nancy), his sister Helen Peterson of Libby and many nieces and nephews. Services are to be announced at a later date. Contributions may be made to Banner Hospice, 275 East Germann Rd, Suite 110, Gilbert, Ariz., 85297.