Russell C. “Chopper” Swanson, Jr., 44 of Marysvillle, TN passed away unexpectedly on August 12, 2024. He is the companion of the love of his life: Brittany Latham of Marysville TN. He was born the son of Theresa M. Tomsic of Bath, PA and Russell C. Swanson Sr. of Exeter, PA.
As a young man, he found joy playing high school football for Pocono Mountain, showcasing his passion for sports. His enthusiasm for life extended beyond the field; he was an avid motorcyclist and a certified Harley mechanic, displaying both skill and dedication.
In the world of music, he made his mark as a member of the stage union, touring with legendary bands such as Kiss and contributing to The Rocky Horror Picture Show. As the bassist for the band "Toan Def," he shared his love for music with audiences. He was also actively involved behind the scenes, working with notable acts like Pfunk, Slipknot, and 5 Finger Death Punch, taking pride in his roles within the lighting and sound crew.
Known for his straightforward approach, he was a “No Bullshit” kind of guy, whose loyalty to friends and family was unwavering. His spirit and passion for music and life will be profoundly missed but fondly remembered by all who had the privilege to know him.
In addition to his parents and love of his life; he will be remembered by his sons: Damien Lawrence Swanson of Wilkes Barre, Jaxon C. Swanson and Damien Hahn both of Saylorsburg; daughter: Marissa Latham of Marysville, TN; step-children: Ashley Smith of Wilkes Barre, Bailey Keegan of Wilkes Barre; grandson: Damien Lawrence Swanson, Jr.; estranged wife: Jennifer Smith (Chris) of Wilkes Barre; siblings: James J. Jennings of Birmingham, AL, Paula Brown of Effort, Stephan Swanson and his wife Jodi of Broadheadsville, Erin Swanson and her husband Rony Brea of Wilkes Barre, Shannaa Jackson and her husband Antoine of TX, Cassandra Masoka of Sterling, VA, Lucas Tomsic of Bath, PA, aunt & uncles: Mark Tomsic of Blakeslee, Troy Leighton and his wife Christine of Wind Gap, John Brown and his wife Heather of Birdsboro and Janet Swanson-Evans of Virginia; great aunt and uncles; 16 nieces and nephews; a multitude of cousins; many friends who loved him like a brother. He is predeceased by a son: Russell C. “Monk” Swanson, III; maternal step-grandfather: Kenneth Leighton; paternal grandparents: Howard L. Swanson Sr. and Lucille Weber and paternal uncle: Howard L. Swanson Jr.
A Memorial Potluck Dinner (Bring Your Favorite Dish and Stories) will be held on Saturday, September 7, 2024, from Noon to 4 PM at the Wind Gap American Legion (Post 724) 217 N Broadway, Wind Gap, PA 18091. Online expressions of sympathy may be recorded at: bensingfuneralhome.net. Local arrangements are under the direction of GEORGE G. BENSING FUNERAL HOME, LLC. - Bath.
In lieu of flowers, memorials are requested to the children’s education fund, make checks payable to “Theresa M. Tomsic” and mail to 2165 Community Drive – Bath, PA 18014.
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