Bernard A. Swenton (92), of Murrieta, California, and affectionately known as “Jake”, passed away on March 29, 2024, surrounded by family while Frank Sinatra crooned “My Way”.
Born on February 12, 1932, in Olyphant, PA, Jake was the seventh of ten children to Walter and Frances Swenton. He was raised in N. Plainfield, NJ and graduated from N. Plainfield High School. Throughout his life, he resided in various states, including PA, NJ, NY, CA, and NC.
He married the love of his life, Joan, on March 15, 1952, and together they shared a beautiful life for over 60 years.
Jake’s dedication extended beyond family life; he served his country in the Army during the Korean War from 1952 to 1954. He and “Joanie” loved to travel, embarking on many trips, including visits to Bermuda and Hong Kong.
Jake worked tirelessly as a merchandiser for companies such as B&G, Shasta Beverages, Kimberly Clark, and Nabisco, until retiring at the age of 83. Beyond his dedication to work, his passions included baseball, football, golf, and of course, Sinatra. Jake was known for his exceptional thoughtfulness and boundless generosity.
Jake is preceded in death by his wife Joan, his daughter Cynthia, and his son, Peter. He is survived by his daughter Dorene Swenton, grandsons Matthew (Roxy) Swenton, Jason (Cole) Swenton, Justin Strom, and Nolan Strom, granddaughters Chelcee (Matthew) Howard, Aimee (Cheyenne) Alcon, and Abby Strom, and his siblings William, Dolores, and Leon Swenton. Jake is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews, many of whom had the privilege of being godchildren to him.
Known affectionately as “GG” to his seven great-grandchildren, Matthew, Penelope, Blaise, Brooklyn, Drexel, Aubrey, and Nathan, Jake’s love encompassed his entire family circle, leaving an enduring legacy of warmth and affection.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, June 23, 2024, at 1:00 p.m. at Hope Lutheran Church, 29043 Vallejo Ave., Temecula, CA 92592. The service will be available for both in-person attendance and via live stream. Following the service, a reception will be held. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Alzheimer’s Foundation in memory of his beloved wife Joan.
