Paul Thomas Swanson, of Jupiter, Fla., beloved husband, grandfather, and esteemed businessman, passed away peacefully Monday, September 23, 2024, at the age of 92, while under hospice care. Born June 21, 1932, in Morgantown, Paul was a son of Arthur and Mildred Swanson.
He grew up in Morgantown, where he graduated from Morgantown High School, setting the stage for a life filled with hard work, dedication, and generosity.
In 1952, Paul proudly served his country in the U.S. Army, bravely deploying to Korea before being honorably discharged in 1955.
Following his military service, he attended West Virginia University, where he pursued a degree in engineering.
His passion for innovation and entrepreneurship led him to join Morgantown Machine in 1960. Just four years later, with the encouragement and trust of his peers, he took a bold step by establishing his own chrome plating business, Swanson Plating, with a small loan secured without collateral.
Paul’s dedication and vision transformed his humble venture from a small three-person operation into Swanson Industries, a powerhouse in the mining industry. The company expanded rapidly, growing to employ over 800 people across five states – Virginia, Pennsylvania, Ohio, Wyoming, and Utah – by the time it was sold in 2011. Despite the company’s vast expansion, Paul remained deeply committed to his community. Over half of his workforce came from the Morgantown area, a testament to his loyalty and dedication to his roots.
Beyond his professional achievements, Paul was an avid and internationally recognized bridge player. His love for the game took root during his college years, and he went on to represent the United States in a number of tournaments internationally, as well as playing in and winning many tournaments here in the U.S. His last international tournament was at the World Bridge Federation Senior Pairs in Sao Paulo, Brazil. Paul cherished bridge for its blend of logic and endless learning, and it remained a constant joy throughout his life.
Paul was married to his beloved wife, Judy Youngblood Swanson, for 35 years. Their marriage was one of deep love, mutual respect, and happiness. Together, they shared countless memories, and Paul was known for his generous spirit, sharp wit, and remarkable sense of humor. He was truly a light to everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.
In addition to his business and personal pursuits, Paul was a valued member of the board of directors for Farmers and Merchants Bank, which later evolved into One Valley Bank as well as for Centra Bank. His wisdom and leadership were highly regarded.
Paul is survived by his devoted wife, Judy; his stepson, Brooke Hoyer of Portland, Ore.; grandsons, Fin Hoyer of Newport, R.I., and Frost Hoyer of Portland; his sister, Karen Pellegrin (Chuck) of Vienna, Va.; his brother, Richard Swanson (Kay) of Morgantown; and Arthur Swanson of Morgantown.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Arthur and Mildred Swanson; and his sister, June Harshbarger of Xenia, Ohio.
A celebration of life will be held at 6 p.m. Wednesday, October 23, at the Waterfront Hotel. in Morgantown.
In lieu of flowers, please consider making a gift to the “Paul T. and Judith Y. Swanson Endowed Scholarship” at West Virginia University.
Memorials can be sent to: WVU Foundation, One Waterfront Place, 7th Floor, P.O. Box 1650, Morgantown, WV 26507. Please make checks payable to the WVUF and include “Paul and Judy Swanson Scholarship” in the memo line.
