Clyde Albert Swenson, 94, passed away peacefully on May 26, 2021, at the Bennion Veterans Center in Payson, Utah.  Clyde was born in Spanish Fork, Utah, on July 8, 1926, to Rulon and Rhea Swenson.  Growing up in Spanish Fork, his favorite childhood memories were of working with his father; and twin brother, Cleve, on their ranch.  Throughout his life, at heart he felt like he was truly a cowboy–he loved working with horses, riding in the mountains, and helping the cattlemen’s association move cattle in Diamond Fork.  He always said the best years of his life were after he retired, spending time with his brother, Cleve, on their horses driving the cattle up Spanish Fork Canyon.

A proud military veteran, Clyde served in the United States Army in the 11th Airborne Unit during World War II.  He served in the South Pacific and the Philippines, receiving multiple awards including a Combat Infantry Badge, Bronze Star and Parachute Infantry Badge.  After his service, he married Maurine Snell on November 12, 1946, in the Salt Lake City Temple.  Together they had three children: Craig, Elaine, and John.  They enjoyed family vacations to southern California and visiting national parks.

Clyde believed strongly in the importance of education and hard work.  After graduating from Spanish Fork High School, he went on to get a achelor’s degree in accounting from Brigham Young University followed by an MBA from New York University in marketing and business.  Even after his formal education was complete, he enjoyed a lifelong pursuit of knowledge.  An avid reader, his house was always full of books.  His favorite author was Neal A. Maxwell, whom he had served with during his time in the Army.

Clyde was employed by the City of Spanish Fork as Administrator of Finance and Recorder for 19 years.  Prior to that, he worked in the accounting department at US Geneva Steel Corporation.  Believing in the importance of being involved in his community, Clyde served on the Spanish Fork City Council from 1956-1968, and from 1992-2000, a total of 20 years.  He also served on the board for the Nebo School District for 14 years.  During his time of service to the city, he participated in many different committees.  Clyde also enjoyed being involved in civic clubs, including the Rotary Club and the Junior Chamber of Commerce.

As a life-long devoted member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Clyde’s faith was paramount in his life.  He held many callings in the church, including that of Bishop and serving in the stake presidency.  He valued his testimony over all things and was a scholar of the scriptures and gospel doctrine.  Clyde enjoyed traveling and was an avid Brigham Young University sports fan–he loved venturing all over the country to attend BYU football games.  After 54 years of marriage, his beloved wife, Maurine, passed away in April of 2001.  He later married Barbara Brown, who passed away in January of 2020.

Clyde is survived by his children and their spouses: Craig and Sharee Swenson of Salem, Elaine and Brian Selby of Orem, and John and Carolyn Swenson of Riverton, as well as 12 grandchildren, 33 great-grandchildren, and 1 great-great-grandchild.  He is preceded in death by his parents; and his siblings: his sisters, Lenore Brockbank and Shirley Beck; and his twin brother, Cleve Swenson.  As a father, grandfather and great-grandfather, Clyde was honored and loved; he will be missed but his example of faithfulness, hard work, and dedication will always be remembered.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Clyde’s life on Tuesday, June 1, 2021, at Walker Funeral Home, 187 South Main Street, Spanish Fork, UT 84660.  The viewing will be held from 9:45 -11:15 a.m. with a funeral service at 11:30 a.m.  Interment will follow in the Spanish Fork City Cemetery.

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