Ralph Swett

James “Ralph” Swett, of Longview, died April 28, 2013 at the Hospice Care Center in Longview.

He was born March 20, 1926 in Longview, to Walt and Hazel Reeves Swett. He attended Longview and Kelso schools and served in the U.S. Navy during World War II.

On August 7, 1948 he married his wife, Elsa in Kelso. James was a Millwright and Maintenance Supervisor for Weyerhaeuser for 35 years, retiring in 1982.

He was a member of the Kelso Eagles and enjoyed gardening, woodworking, RVing and boating and was very passionate about fishing. He fished the Dollars for Scholars Sturgeon Derby for the last five years, taking oldest angler award. He was outgoing, friendly, generous and very curious about everything.

Survivors include his wife, Elsa, at home; son Grant (Susan) Swett of Longview; daughters Linda Mathis (Ed Nunes) of Gilbert, Ariz., Teri Weedman and Cindy (Guy) Murray-Tow, both of Longview; brother David (Tiny) Swett of Vancouver; sister Una (Perk) Rose of Riggins, Idaho; nine grandchildren; 11 great grandchildren and a great great grandson.

He was preceded in death by his parents, two brothers and a sister.

A memorial service will be held Friday, May 3, 3 p.m. at Steele Chapel in Longview. Memorial contributions may be made to Hospice.