David L. Swiggum

David L. Swiggum, age 72, passed away Aug. 22, 2015 in Murfreesboro, TN. He was born Nov.6, 1942 in Viroqua, WI to Rudolph and Mamie Swiggum. He graduated from Gays Mills High School in 1961 and joined the Navy where he served as a Portuguese interpreter. His tours of Duty took him to South America and Africa. Health issues forced him out of the Navy and he lived in the La Crosse area most of the next 35 years. For the last 11 years, he was cared for by the Murfreesboro VA and Jake’s Assisted Living in Murfreesboro.

He was an avid pool player and played in various leagues in the La Crosse area. Getting together with David often meant playing a few games of pool.

David dealt with mental health issues much of his adult life. While this created some stressful times for family, it also highlighted some wonderful people. A couple in Colorado took him in and nursed him back to health. A veteran in Montana took him home to his farm and nursed him back to health. Those were acts of exceptional kindness and faith. We are thankful for those who befriended him during those difficult times.

David is survived by his brother, La Verne (Irene), Sister-in-law, Bonnie Swiggum and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Leslie.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to NAMI of La Crosse County, Inc. NAMI is an informational and support group for families of people afflicted with mental illness.

Funeral Services will be held at 2:00 PM Saturday, August 29, 2015 at Blaschke & Schneider Funeral Home, 1501 West Ave. South, La Crosse, WI. Visitation will be from 12:00 until the time of the Service at the Funeral Home. Burial with Military Honors will be held at 11:00 AM, Monday August 31, 2015, at the Freeman Lutheran Church Cemetery, in Ferryville, WI.