Wayne Swensen

Donald Wayne Swensen, 74, of Egin, passed away Saturday, September 16, 2017 at Madison Memorial Hospital. He was born on July 28, 1943 in Blackfoot, Idaho to George and Blendena Thompson Swensen. He was the fourth of five children. He grew up and attended schools in St. Anthony, Idaho. While attending South Fremont High School, Wayne excelled in football, basketball, and FFA.

After graduating from high school, Wayne served a 2 ½ year mission in Oslo, Norway. He loved serving the people in the land of his ancestors. While in Norway, Wayne visited the original Swensen Farm. He had a lifelong love of Norway, and passed this love onto his children and grandchildren.

After an honorary mission, Wayne returned to St. Anthony and enlisted in the United States Army. On August 11, Wayne married his eternal companion, Catherine Orgill, in the Idaho Falls LDS Temple. After a short 11 days, Wayne was deployed to Viet Nam, where he proudly served his country. His love of America and patriotism was shown daily as he flew the American flag at his home.

Wayne and Catherine settled in the St. Anthony area after his service in the Army. He worked at the Youth Services Center. It was there that his love for teaching and helping others began. Ty and Tara joined the family at this time. Wayne then enrolled and graduated from BYU with a degree in Elementary Education. He loved BYU sports and could be found cheering on the Cougars on a regular basis.

Wayne taught school in the Fremont School District for 35 years. He was a beloved teacher who touched the lives of numerous students. His favorite part of teaching was seeing the students learn, gain confidence, and succeed. Wayne and Catherine eventually settled in the Egin area where Timalee and Tate completed their little family. Together they built a home full of love.

Wayne held many church callings including second counselor in the bishopric and served as Bishop of the Egin Ward for 7 years. He also served as young men's leader, ward clerk, executive secretary, stake and ward missionary, Stake Sunday School President, and most recently as the ward historian with Catherine. He was a dedicated home teacher throughout the years. Wayne and Catherine served an 18 month mission in the addiction recovery program, which they served humbly and honorably. His favorite service was in the Rexburg Temple, where he was an ordinance worker. He often volunteered for additional shifts to serve both the living and the dead.

Wayne started the Little League Baseball program in the Egin area and coached many teams throughout the years. He coached all four of his children. He also served on the Parker Cemetery Board and as the Head Election Judge in the Egin jurisdiction.

Wayne's favorite pastime was supporting and mentoring his ten grandchildren in various activities. He rarely missed an event they participated in. He enjoyed fishing, camping, and sporting events- especially those of his grandchildren. He drove hours and hours to watch them play. Wayne also enjoyed puzzles and playing games with his family. He was a true competitor. Over the years he developed a love for yard work and growing a bounteous garden, a trait he learned from his beloved in-laws Lowell and Nona Orgill. He loved his Savior with all his heart and was a devoted servant.

Funeral services will be Wednesday, September 20, 2017 at 11:00 a.m. in the Egin Bench LDS Chapel (1633 East 400 North.) The family will receive friends on Tuesday from 6:00 p.m. until 7:30 p.m. and Wednesday from 10:00 a.m. until 10:45 a.m. both times at the church. Burial will be in the Parker Cemetery where military rites will be by the St. Anthony Veterans and the Idaho Honor Guard. Arrangements are under the direction of Bert Flamm Mortuary.