Calvin Swaback
January 16, 1947 - October 7, 2023

Calvin Swaback was born January 16, 1947, in Des Moines, Iowa, the son of Reverend Oran and Esther (Hallbom) Swaback, and departed peacefully, surrounded by his family, on October 7, 2023.

As a minister's son, Calvin lived in many places throughout the country in his early years. Always quick with a joke or pun and a helping hand, Cal was never short of good friends wherever he was. He attended University of Illinois, in Chicago and finished his education at the University of Washington earning a degree in Social Work.

Calvin started his career as a social worker, and then worked as a D.J. playing for weddings, parties, and various events. He was also a sought-after river guide that led groups and family members down the Rogue River, the Klamath, the Salmon, and many others. In 1992, he changed careers and became a Metrobus driver for King County.

Cal was first married in 1989 and helped in raising David and Josh Larsen. Although divorced in 2001, he remained a part of their lives and enjoyed spending time with them and their families.

In 2002, he met and then married his wife in 2005. They enjoyed playing racquetball together and raised five cats. Then in 2020, their son was born. Much adored by Calvin, he and his son shared many things including a great love of buses.

Cal was also admired by his fellow bus colleagues and many passengers. Sometimes he was referred to as The Singing Bus Driver due to his impromptu and varied musical renditions for passengers. His jovial, good nature was shared with all on his routes.

Cal was known for his many hobbies which included hang-gliding in red and white overalls, music making on the saw, spoon playing, racquetball, motorcycling, metal detecting, singing, and jogging. He loved the Seattle Seahawks, Mariners, Bugs Bunny, cats of all kinds, and learning new things.

Calvin will be greatly missed by his wife and son; sister, Joy Light; nieces Käthe Swaback, Kim Swaback, Monica Wallen (Dennis), and Beth Nelson (Roger); nephew, David Swenson (Suzanne); and many more beloved cousins and their families. Preceding him in death was his sister, Phyllis Swenson, his brothers, Dwight and Dale Swaback; his father, Oran Swaback; and his mother, Esther Keating.

During this difficult time and in lieu of flowers, please reach out to the family for any financial contributions for Calvin's medical expenses or remembrances through email to calswabackmemorial@yahoo.com

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