Roger A. Swanson, age 62 of Big Rapids, passed away Sunday, February 5, 2012 at his home. He was born February 3, 1950 in Big Rapids, the son of Stanley and Georgia (VanAlstine) Swanson. Roger graduated from Tawas High School in 1968. Following graduation he joined the United States Air Force serving during the Vietnam War. In 1985 Roger was honorably discharged. He began his career being an automotive mechanic in Texas until he moved back to Big Rapids in 2008. Roger enjoyed fishing, reading, building model cars and wood working. He loved his family. Roger is survived by his 2 sisters, Susan (Dan) Bopry of Traverse City and Marsha (Kevin) Schultz of Kalkaska; many nieces and nephews; several great nieces and great nephews. Roger is preceded in death by his parents and a brother Steven Swanson. There are no services being planned at this time.