James Edward Swedeen

James Edward Swedeen, 78, was born June 4, 1944 in Winona, Minnesota to Arthur and Helen Swedeen. He was one of three siblings and loved his sister, brother and their families very much: Barbara Swedeen, Jerry Swedeen, Jerry’s spouse Ruth and nieces Karen, Pam and Paula. He passed away in Indianapolis surrounded by family. After making lifelong friendships at John Adams High School in South Bend, Indiana, he earned a Bachelor of Arts in English from Indiana University Bloomington and a Master of Science in Marketing and Public Relations from Ball State University. Jim loved life and enjoyed a lengthy career in marketing communications working with Borg Warner, ZF Industries and Mercedes Benz, in line with his passion for cars. A highlight was serving with the US Army in Mannheim, Germany and riding his Honda 250 motorcycle throughout Europe, which sparked his love of travel and languages. But Jim’s first love was family, including the Swedeen and Whitlock extended families in California, the Pacific Northwest, Florida and Texas. He especially adored, was so proud of, and found great joy through time spent with his wife Ann Whitlock Swedeen, son Blair and wife Heather Swedeen, and granddaughters Ruby and Lulu Swedeen. Jim/Dad/Grandpa/Oompa is deeply missed. May he rest in peace and may his memory be a blessing.