Ervin Stephen Swan

Ervin Swan 79, of Laurel, peacefully passed away at the Riverstone Hospice House after a lengthy battle with cancer. His nephew David was by his side.

Ervin was born April 30, 1941. He was the son of Carl and Elizabeth (Kessel) Swan. He spent his early childhood in Bridger Montana, until his family moved to Laurel in 1950. Ervin graduated from Laurel High school and enlisted into the United States Navy. He served 4 years of Active Duty and 2 years in the Reserves.

Ervin married Judy Kraft in 1969.  They were married for 26 years until her death in 1995. Together they enjoyed camping, fishing, gardening and family gatherings.  He was a dedicated employee at Associated Foods, where he worked for 32 years, until his retirement in 2004.  Other hobbies included stamp collecting, deer hunting and cheering on Notre Dame and Navy College football teams and the Green Bay Packers.

After the death of his second wife, Leslyn McLaughlin, Ervin moved to Billings to live with his nephew David’s family.  He spent the last 1.5 years living in the country where he was able to watch beautiful sunsets, see pheasants, deer and other wildlife from the front porch, while enjoying a cold beer and smoking cigars.

Ervin was preceded in death by his parents, brother Carl Swan, wife Judy (Kraft) Swan, wife Leslyn McLaughlin. He is survived by his nephew David “Bubba” (Sarah and great-nephew Dylan) Burns; nephews Keith Burns, Will Grice, Brian Grice, Michael Swan, Stephen Swan and step-granddaughter Naomi Lyon.

We would like to say a special thanks to the Billings Clinic Cancer/Infusion Center staff for the excellent care over the years and to Riverstone Hospice for their compassionate care during Ervin’s final days.

Per Ervin’s request, there will be no funeral service. Cremation has taken place and his ashes will be interred next to his wife Judy, at the Laurel Cemetery. A celebration of life will take place at a later date.