April 8, 1935 – March 10, 2025
James “Jim” Clyde Swanz, 89, beloved husband, father, and “Papa” to his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, passed away surrounded by loved ones on Monday, March 10, 2025.
Jim was born on April 8, 1935 in Lewistown, Montana, to Raymond and Hazel (Martin) Swanz. The oldest of seven children, he spent his formative years on the family ranch in Utica. Jim graduated from Hobson high school in 1952 and began his college career at Montana State College in Bozeman that fall. In February of 1954, Jim joined the Marines, spent his active duty in San Diego and Korea, and was honorably discharged in February of 1957.
While home on leave in July of 1956, Jim and Jean Archibald rekindled a relationship and became engaged. They were married on June 1, 1957 and moved back to Bozeman where Jim completed his undergraduate degree in Mathematics education. During their stay in Bozeman, Jim and Jean welcomed daughters Pam in 1959 and Patti in 1960. In August of 1961, Jim and family moved to Hamiltion. Son Steven joined the family in 1964.
Jim began his teaching, coaching, and administrative career at Hamilton High School in September of 1961 and retired in June of 1988. Mr. Swanz influenced the lives of countless students during his 27 years in education.
Outdoor activities were integral to Jim’s life. Whether fishing throughout Montana, hunting with The Big Six, snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, hiking, biking, camping, or simply mowing the lawn, he was in his element.
Jim was welcomed in Heaven by his parents, brother Dick, and former teaching cronies. IYKYK
He is survived by his wife and best friend of 67 years, Jean (Archibald) Swanz; his daughters Pam (Tony) Murnion and Patti (John) Stevens, and son Steve (Maureen Rintala) Swanz; grandchildren James (Haley Green) Murnion, Stephen Murnion, and Connor (Katie) Murnion, Jessica (Max) Borgardt and Breeanna (Andy) Tallakson, Samantha Swanz, Fallon (Spencer Toycen) Swanz, and Declan (Bryan Torppa) Swanz, Colton (Denise) Rintala and Emma (Garrett) Mirsky; eight great-grandchildren and one on the way; siblings Sandra Cummings, Gayle (Ray) Valentine, Tom Swanz, John (Linda) Swanz, and Cheryl (Bill) Spratt; as well as numerous nieces and nephews.
Jim’s family would like to express their deepest gratitude for the compassionate care provided by the ICU staff at Bitterroot Health.
A celebration of life service will be held at 11:00 a.m. April 8, 2025 at the Daly-Leach Chapel in Hamilton. Military honors will be presented by the US Marine Corps. Condolences may be left for the family at www.dalyleachchapel.com
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to Bitterroot Land Trust in Jim’s name or a charity of your choice.