"Butch" passed away January 25, 2018. He was born August 20, 1943 in Rockford, IL to Chester Blain and Edith Phillips Swanstrom. He was a old cowboy that got his wings and flew his way into heaven. Gordon passed away suddenly and unexpected. He was a surviving Vietnam War veteran and served his country in the Navy. He wasn't perfect and was often rough around the edges, just an old military guy turned rancher/cowboy always, trying to find his way. "He was firm but fair with a hard hand, but he was mine and perfect to me." "All I ever wanted was to make him proud of me and live up to his standards." Not sure if I accomplished that but, I hope I did." He is survived by his significant other, Gloria; sister, Karen Weise; son, Corey (Melissa) Swanstrom who ofter cared cared for him; daughter, Lisa Laws; grandson, Justin and Tyler Swanstrom. Visitation will be from 4-6 PM Wednesday, January 31st at Hodges Family Funeral Home, Zephyrhills. He will be laid to rest at Florida National Cemetery, Bushnell.