Obituary of Gordon Swarthout

No Visitation is Planned Gordon Scott Swarthout passed away on April 4, 2009. He was born August 4 1958 in Berkley, California to Jack and Mary Swarthout.Gordon grew up in Missoula, Montana and graduated from Sentinel High School in 1977. In 1980, Gordon married Eileen Joy in Olympia. Shortly thereafter he enlisted in the Air Force and served at Hill Air Force Base, Utah between 1981 to 1989. After leaving active duty service, he and his family moved back to Olympia where he began his career in information services at the Department of Labor and Industries. Gordon continued his service to his country by joining the Air Force Reserve serving with the 86 Aerial Port Squadron. He achieved his dream of earning the rank of Chief Master Sergeant, the highest enlisted rank in the Air Force. In 2006, Gordon was deployed to Baghdad, Iraq. His meritorious service earned him many accolades, including the Bronze Star. Gordon cherished serving his community, from scoutmaster of Pack 333 to board member of Ballet Northwest. He is survived by his wife of 28 years, Eileen; three children, Christopher (Johanna), Conner (Beth), Katherine; mother, Mary Swarthout; brothers, Steve (Shauna), Mike (Kathi), Jack; sisters, Sandi (Vernon), Jacki; many aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews; and his beloved dog, Sophie. He was preceded in death by his father, Jack Swarthout. A celebration of his life will be held 11:00 A.M Tuesday, April 14 at the Church of Living Water, 1615 Chamber St. SE, Olympia. A military service will be held 11:00 A.M. Wednesday, April 15 at the main base chapel at McChord AFB, Tacoma WA. You may leave memories and condolences online by clicking on "View Guestbook" below.