Gary L. Swoverland

Gary Lynn Swoverland, age 83, of Ladysmith, Wisconsin, passed away peacefully on January 3, 2026. Born on July 18, 1942, Gary grew up on the family dairy farm near Tony, Wisconsin, the son of Earl and Alice Swoverland. He attended Tony High School and continued his education at Mount Senario College in Ladysmith, where he worked as a janitor while pursuing his studies. On July 3, 1965, Gary married the love of his life, Carolyn Josi, and together they built a rich and fulfilling life in Ladysmith.

Gary was a true jack of all trades—a skilled carpenter who learned from his father, a successful businessman, and a man who could "do almost anything." His career reflected his versatility. He and Carolyn operated the Melody Bar in Bruce, Wisconsin; he ran a State Farm Insurance agency for many years; owned and managed a family shoe store in Ladysmith; and finished his working years at S&K TV Systems, retiring in 2005. An avid outdoorsman, Gary cherished deer hunting, fishing (including many memorable trips to Canada), snowmobiling with family, friends, and his special group from Sparta, Wisconsin, and gathering at the hunting cabin with buddies to make maple syrup each spring. He also enjoyed golfing and was known for his warm, capable spirit in all he did. Gary gave back to his community through involvement in the Kiwanis, Jaycees, and Exhausted Rooster Club; supporting the 4-H Club; and serving on the county board.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Earl and Alice Swoverland; and his sisters, Kay Vaughn and Carol Johnson. Gary is survived by his loving wife of 59 years, Carolyn Swoverland; sons, Stacy Swoverland and Jeff Swoverland, both of Ladysmith; brothers-in-law, Jerry Vaughn and Gary Johnson; as well as many nieces, nephews, extended family, and dear friends.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, January 10, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon at Nash-Jackan Funeral Home in Ladysmith, followed by a memorial service at noon. Burial will take place at a later date in Tony, Wisconsin. Following the service, family and friends are invited to a luncheon at Meadowbrook Event Center.

Gary lived life fully, embracing the wisdom that being a "jack of all trades, and master of none is often better than being master of one". He will be deeply missed but fondly remembered for his kindness, skill, and adventurous heart.

A complete obituary will also be published in the Ladysmith News.