Michael J. Swofford
May 7, 1938 - August 16, 2011
Obituary
Michael J. Swofford
Father and grandfather, passed away peacefully on August 16, 2011 after a brief illness. Mike was born to Joseph A. and Marion M. Swofford in Seattle in May 1938, grew up on north Capitol Hill, lived in Japan during the early 1950s, and returned to graduate from Lincoln High School. He began college study at the University of Virginia and completed his undergraduate degree and doctor of jurisprudence at the University of Washington where he was a member of the Delta Kappa Epsilon fraternity. After a two-year Army assignment in the Judge Advocate’s General Corps, Mike joined the United States Attorney’s Office in Seattle in 1966 where he served as a prosecutor. Mike joined Graham & Dunn in 1970 and became a senior partner with a specialized practice in corporate, tax and real estate law during a thirty-two year career. Never far from the water, Mike raised a family on Mercer Island with former wife Linda before moving to Lake Union in 1998. In his retirement, Mike lavished attention on his grandchildren and his houseboat, pursued new interests and expanded his circle of friends.
Over many years, Mike enjoyed lunch at The Rainier Club, loved boating and the beach, travelled extensively and savored a good martini.
Mike is survived by Linda; their children Jeff Swofford Brian Risley, John Swofford Sally and Anne Swofford Acker Tom; grandsons William, Wyatt and James Acker who miss their ‘Grumpy’; and numerous close friends.
Remembrances may be directed to Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center http://www.fhcrc.org/ or the Experimental Education Unit at the University of Washington http://www.haringcenter.washington.edu/eeu.
I am so sorry about the loss that you have experienced as a family. I am praying for you and even though it is a hard time right now, I am sure that God is with you.
Dear Jeff and Swofford Family,
I was heartbroken to hear the news, and I want you to know that my thoughts and prayers are with you.
I always admire the close relationship you have with your family.
There is a great void to be filled by your father�s passing, but I know that the depth of love that you and your family share for each other and for your father will pull you through. Honor his memory with that love and the wonderful memories you share of him.
Please extend my deepest sympathy to your wonderful family. May you all find the strength to get through the days ahead.
Sincerely,
Naoko Vicky Hayashida
My thoughts and prayers are with his family.