James "Jim" Milton Swan

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of James (Jim) Milton Swan, who departed this life January 25, 2026. A devoted husband, father, brother, and friend, Jim touched countless lives through his warmth, humor, and kindness.

Jim is survived by his beloved wife, Helen Mellinger Swan, to whom he was devoutly married for nearly 60 years. He leaves behind his cherished two children, son Robert M. Swan of Kansas City and daughter Andrea L. Swan of Strasbourg. France, who were the pride and joy of his life. He also leaves his loving grandchildren, Jenna Swan, William Swan and Jonah Swan. Also surviving Jim are his two younger sisters, Rebecca Howe of Englewood, Florida, and Carolyn Stinson of Lafayette, Indiana, who long ago voted him the best big brother ever. Jim was predeceased by his parents, Robert and Margaret Swan.

Born in the town of Frankfort, Indiana on November 22, 1944, Jime met his wife, Helen Mellinger, at Purdue University on a blind date at a charity fundraiser. Dressed as a can-can dancer, Helen caught Jim’s eye and she knew from the first moment he was a 10 on a 10-point scale. After dating for more than three years, Jim and Helen married August 13, 1966, at St. Boniface Church in Lafayette, Indiana

Jim attended Frankfort public schools and graduated from its high school. He graduated Purdue University with a math degree, and Rockhurst College with a master’s in business administration.

After graduating, Jim worked as a computer programmer for the next 44 years, loving every minute of it. After a long 48 years in programming, Jim retired from his job in Topeka, Kansas and moved with Helen to Sun City Grand in Surprise, Arizona. An avid collector of English Flow china, Jim became the webmaster of the Flow Blue International Collector’s Club and The Grand Bridge Club. All his life, Jim helped his friends with their computer problems.

Jim found joy in simple pleasures. He loved animals and spent several years training dogs and showing his own Shetland sheepdogs. He loved being a family man and doted on his wife, children, and grandchildren. His favorite Christmas film was “It’s a Wonderful Life,” a reflection of his own values and the life he led. He was a passionate Kansas City Chiefs fan and a lover of anything chocolate.

Jim Swan will be remembered for his kindness, humility, silly Dad jokes, and being a truly good person. Though he is no longer with us, the legacy of his love lives on in the countless lives he touched.

He will be deeply missed and forever loved. Everyone who befriended Jim knows the world lost a good man.

His Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, March 14, 2026, starting at 10:00 in the morning at Warren-McElwain Mortuary in Lawrence, Kansas.

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research in Jim’s name.