Richard P. Swanson

Richard P. Swanson, Sr., Captain USAF Retired, age 77, of Diamondhead, passed away on June 15, 2013.
Affectionately known as ""Dickie"" by his family, he was born in Kansas City, MO, to Geraldine and Frederick Swanson. He loved playing golf with his friends in Diamondhead, model railroading, model planes, painting, building custom birdhouses, world travel, LSU, his wife of 57 years, his 6 children, grandchildren, his golden retriever Louie, God, and his Country.
He was reared in Robbinsdale, MN, joined the United States Air Force and retired after 25 years of service to his Country. He was awarded the Air Force Commendation Medal. Capt. Swanson attained a BS from USM, a MBA from the University of Nevada, and a DBA from the International Graduate School where he received the Dana Hart Award for his dissertation. He retired to Diamondhead in 1992.
He is preceded in death by his son, Richard P. Swanson, Jr., and his brothers, Lenny Joe and Robert Swanson.
He is survived by his wife, Joy Hazard Swanson; daughters, Terry Sullivan (Kevin), Denise Barter (Fred), Jerri Mason; his sons, Casey Swanson (Christina) and William Swanson; and 12 grandchildren.
Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Wednesday, June 19, 2013, at Most Holy Trinity Catholic Church, at 11 am. Friends are invited to visit one hour prior to Mass.
Burial at Biloxi National Cemetery at a later date will be private.
RIEMANN FAMILY FUNERAL HOME, 9113 Kiln Delisle Road, is in charge of arrangements, and tributes may be offered at www.riemannfamily.com.