Mervin Dexter Swanson

Mervin Dexter Swanson, 85, passed away peacefully in his sleep on Tuesday, December 30, 2025, at his home in Puyallup, Washington. He was born on July 27, 1940, in Puyallup to Leonard and Anna Swanson, and he remained deeply connected to his hometown throughout his life.

Mervin graduated from Puyallup High School, Class of 1958, and went on to earn a Bachelor of Science from the School of Fisheries at the University of Washington. A lifelong learner, builder, and problem-solver, he combined curiosity with craftsmanship in everything he did. A proud member of Boilermakers Local 502, Mervin enjoyed projects involving engineering and fabrication and was known for his ability to dream big and then figure out how to make those dreams real.

He owned and operated Alternative Energy Applications (AEA), where he designed and built water-based solar systems and later worked in CNC laser cutting. Over the years, he innovated and designed the Quick Lube system for cars and trucks and also designed and built an industrial dishwasher for Brown & Haley. If something could be imagined, Mervin believed it could be built.

Mervin had a deep passion for science, the environment, and people. He was endlessly curious, always learning, and always eager to share ideas. He found joy in Toastmasters, Friends of the River Walk, and serving on the Puyallup Public Library Council. One of his proudest visions was bringing together minds from Washington State University, the University of Washington, and the City of Puyallup to imagine an elite urban environmental sciences campus. From rainwater reuse to vertical grow gardening, he believed sustainable, cost-effective solutions could strengthen communities and create a better future for his hometown.

In his younger years, Mervin loved building model airplanes, camping, and fishing throughout the Pacific Northwest. As a teen and young adult, he raced motorcycles and cars, enjoyed working on his own vehicles, and attended hot rod shows. He also loved a good political debate, whether or not the other person was prepared for it. For many years, Merv was an active member of the local Democratic Club.

Above all, Mervin was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. He is survived by his wife of 50 years, Karen Swanson, his true partner and best friend. They shared a love of science and often spent evenings watching the Science Channel together, learning and debating side by side. Their home was filled with conversation, curiosity, and laughter.

He is also survived by his son, Leonard Swanson, daughter-in-law Carly Swanson, and grandson Lucas Swanson; daughter Jill Makowichuk and granddaughter Izzy Makowichuk; and daughter Marcia Meurs and granddaughter Mary Meurs.

Mervin rarely missed a game, performance, or activity for his children and grandchildren, whether it was soccer, basketball, tennis, volleyball, choir, orchestra, or more. He was especially proud that Izzy is a third-generation Puyallup Viking and firmly believed she has the talent to play basketball at the highest level.

Time spent on the water was one of Mervin’s greatest joys, especially when he was captaining his own boat. Fishing was a big part of that passion, whether on rivers, lakes, and streams or out in the open ocean. More than the catch itself, he treasured the time spent with friends and family, especially his son and grandson.

One of his fondest memories in recent years was an evening run out into the ocean just off La Push with Lenny and Lucas. By good luck, the weather was perfect, creating an unforgettable sunset. Out on the water with two of his favorite people, they saw blue sharks everywhere and watched whales slap their tails so loudly they could almost feel the thud. The photos from that evening became something very special to him.

Merv also loved sailing and took great pride in teaching his son to sail the 28-foot San Juan, Suddenly.

Mervin’s home was always open. Friends in need could count on a seat at the dinner table or a place to stay. He had a gift for making people feel welcome and at ease. Dinner conversations were lively, curious, and often humorous. New guests were sometimes greeted with a mischievous icebreaker about “the sex life of an oyster,” guaranteed to earn a laugh and remind everyone that nothing was off-limits. He valued open conversation, shared meals, and time together, even with the news playing not-so-quietly in the background.

Mervin Dexter Swanson leaves behind a legacy of curiosity, generosity, innovation, and deep love for his family and community. He will be remembered as a dreamer, a champion of the environment, a devoted family man, and a welcoming presence to all who passed through his door.

A Celebration of Life will be held in early spring. More information will be shared at a later date.