Francis Lee Swan

Francis “Franco” Lee Swan, age 59, a lifelong resident of Inchelium, Wash., passed away on Saturday, Feb. 9, 2013, in Inchelium at his home. Franco was born on July 20, 1953, in Inchelium the son of Corbett and Mildred (Meusy) Swan Sr.

He began school at St. Mary’s Mission School in Omak and after two years transferred to Inchelium where he completed his education. Franco graduated from Inchelium High School in 1971. He then entered the U.S. Marines and served for three years before returning to Inchelium. Franco attended I.A.T. and became a journeyman carpenter. During his many years as a carpenter, Franco helped to construct the Inchelium High School, Post and Pole Plant and the Inchelium Clinic. He also worked at the Post and Pole Plant following its construction through its closure. Franco then worked for the Colville Confederated Tribe Range Department for three years. His most recent employment was working with the Inchelium Community Center. Franco had been diagnosed with colon cancer in April of 2009 of which he fought into remission. During the summer of 2012, he began to fight cancer again, this time in his liver. Franco fought well and led with the hope of a miracle.

From the time of his youth, Franco was quite athletic. He enjoyed playing basketball, softball, boxing and was an exceptional at pool. He shared many great times riding his Harley with his “Bros”, which included several trips to Sturgis. Franco also enjoyed starting his morning with episodes of the old westerns. He had a broad sense of humor and was willing to offer a hand to family and friends when in need.

Franco was preceded in death by his brothers: Jimmy and Donnie Swan; son Loren Charette; granddaughter Katie Leadercharge; sister Jackie Williams; “bros”: Bob Louie and Tony Desautel.

Franco is survived by his life-long love, Cheryl Williams, at the home; children: Anna Sandvig, Neil Swan, Stacy Swan, Brandi Swan and Michael Swan; siblings:Rich Swan, Georgia Simpson of Inchelium, Kathy Swan of Seattle, Joe Bear Swan and Cindy Thomas, of Spokane, Christine Scott of Inchelium, Connie George, Hector Mendoza of Spokane, Carrie and Mathew Pakootas of Nespelem; parents Mildred and Corby Swan of Inchelium; grandsons: Brenton Swan, Nick and Stan Sandvig, Gabe Watson Jr .; granddaughters: Tamara Watson, Sequoia and Josephine Swan; godsons, Michael Finley, Tony Louie and Clint Desautel, numerous nieces, nephews, grandchildren and his dogs; Sugar, Roxy and Shadow.

Services for Mr. Francis “Franco” Lee Swan began with a Rosary and Vigil at 7 p.m., Thursday, Feb. 14, 2013, followed by the Funeral Mass at 10 a.m., Friday, Feb. 15, 2013, both at the Inchelium Community Center in Inchelium. The graveside service followed at Hall Creek Cemetery, Inchelium. Memorial contributions may be given to the American Cancer Society. Please visit the on-line memorial and sign the guestbook at http://www.danekasfuneralchapel.com. Danekas Funeral Chapel and Crematory is entrusted with the arrangements.