Leland (Swede) Wilson was a Vietnam Veteran. He was in the Army "Big Red 1". After being shot eight times in Vietnam and released with an honorary discharge and purple heart, he moved back to Oregon.

Later, Swede married Susanne Jarreh in October 1989 and resided in Rexburg, Idaho. Together they raised paint and quarter horses. Swede loved fishing with anyone who would go with him. Team penning was a fun sport that he enjoyed until a horse wreck in 2004. He had many friends and those that knew Swede said he was the trainer/ recruiter for guardian angels. He lived his life to the fullest. Swede will be missed by his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Rest in peace Swede, you deserve it.