Howard A. Swanson

Howard A. Swanson, 94, a 70-year Plainville resident, US Army veteran, retired Plainville Fire Chief, and former Northeast Utilities employee passed away peacefully on June 4, 2026, leaving behind a legacy built on service, leadership, hard work, love for his family and hometown.

Born in New Britain on Friday, May 13, 1932, Howard was the son of the late John A. and Margaret (Firnhaber) Swanson. Raised and educated in New Britain, he graduated from New Britain High School and began a distinguished 42-year career with Connecticut Light & Power/ Northeast Utilities, retiring as District Line Supervisor for New Britain.

His career was briefly interrupted in 1952 when he answered another call to service after being drafted into the United States Army and serving in Korea.

Perhaps nowhere was Howard's impact more profound than within the Plainville Fire Department, where he dedicated nearly thirty years of volunteer service. Rising through every rank, he ultimately served as Fire Chief for ten years. His leadership extended well beyond emergency response. He was instrumental in the planning and design of the upgraded firehouse that stands today and establishing the Plainville Fire Department Memorial Scholarship, a program that remained especially close to his heart. Even in his final days, he proudly monitored the scholarship growth and celebrated the opportunities it provided for future generations.

His commitment to the fire service reached statewide recognition through his service as Past President of the Connecticut Fire Chiefs Association

Howard was a Third Degree Mason with Frederick-Franklin Lodge #14, a member of Elks Lodge #1010, and the Crocodile Club, maintaining lifelong friendships through organizations dedicated to fellowship and community service.

Howard found joy in hunting, fishing, collecting antiques and completing home projects. He embraced the philosophy that there was no project he couldn't tackle himself, rarely hiring anyone to do a job before attempting it himself.

Aruba was Howard’s favorite travel destination that he shared with Christine Aldi, his beloved partner of more than twenty years. From the day of their first date, the two were virtually inseparable, creating countless cherished memories through adventures, laughter, and companionship.

Howard approached every responsibility with humility, dedication, and pride. He believed in serving others, honoring his country, and leaving things better than he found them.

In addition to Chris, he leaves his children, John H. Swanson and his wife Barbara, Karen L. Swanson, Raymond T. Swanson and his wife Debra, and Debra H. Swanson; seven grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren.

In lieu of flowers, Howard may be remembered with contributions to the Plainville Fire Company Memorial Scholarship Fund, 77 West Main St, Plainville, CT 06062.

Family and friends may gather in celebration of Howard’s life on Saturday June 13, 2026 from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. at Plainville Funeral Home, 81 Broad St, Plainville.  Words of remembrance will be shared at 11 a.m., followed by committal services and military honors at Fairview Cemetery, New Britain.  For online expressions of sympathy, please visit http://www.PlainvilleFuneralHome.com

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