Harry C Swendsen

Harry C. Swendsen, 89, Bismarck, formerly of Hettinger, ND, went to be with his Lord, Wed. February 22, 2012, leaving behind his beloved wife Ellen after 68 years of marriage. Services will be held at 10:30 am Monday, February 27, at the Baptist Home Chapel, Bismarck, with Rev. Clyde Zimbelman officiating. Burial will be in the North Dakota Veterans Cemetery, Mandan. Visitation will be held from 3:00 pm until 6:00 pm Sunday, February 26, at Eastgate Funeral Service, Bismarck. Harry was born April 19, 1922 to Christian and Albertine Peterson Swendsen of McClusky. Harry grew up in McClusky and attended school in Sheridan County School System. Harry served honorable in the U.S. Army during World War II entering in 1942 and was deployed to the European Theater and was engaged in several campaigns including the "Battle of the Bulge." While home on leave in 1943 he married the love of his life, Ellen Turnbull. After returning home from serving his country, Harry and Ellen made their home in McClusky N.D. before relocating to Hettinger N.D. in 1948. Harry was employed at Hettinger Auto Co. as a Parts Manager and later became the sole owner until retirement. Harry and Ellen traveled extensively in the US, Canada, Mexico and visited every continent except the Antarctica; even being adventurous enough to make their home in Portugal for one year before returning to Hettinger. Harry was also involved in many community organizations including, Chamber of Commerce, American Legion, and Partners in Health. He was also Secretary Treasurer of the North Dakota Chapter of the Veterans of the "Battle of the Bulge," and served in that position for twenty years, always eager to reunite with his service comrades. Harry was also an avid trail rider and was a member of the ND Trail Riders. Harry was a kind, loving and gentle man, with a captivating sense of humor and wit. He will be profoundly missed by all his loving family and cherished friends he has left behind. He is also survived by many loving nieces and nephews Harry was proceeded in death by his parents; five brothers, Frank, Glen, Paul, Carl, Roy, and three sisters, Elsie, Norma, and Ella June.

Harry C Swendsen

April 19, 1922 - February 22, 2012