Snoqualmie Businessman Dies

SNOQUALMIE - George Swenson, lifelong Snoqualmie resident, businessman and civic leader, died of a heart attack last night at his home.

Family members and friends were stunned early today when news of Swenson's death began to circulate through this tight-knit community, where his father founded Monte Vista Dairy 50 years ago.

Dave Battey, his nephew, said Swenson was sitting in his favorite easy chair when the heart attack occurred at about 10 p.m. Efforts by King County Fire District medical personnel to revive Swenson were unsuccessful.

"It's hard to believe. Doctors had recently given him a clean bill of health," Battey said.

Swenson's son, Stewart, a flier on leave from the U.S. Navy aircraft carrier Belleau Wood, was at home at the time. Another son, Eric, is away from home.

Swenson's wife, Jean, has been in the Overlake Medical Center intensive-care unit for some time with spinal problems.

Last month, Swenson completed negotiations to merge his company, Monte Vista Distributors with K&N Meats Inc. on Oct. 1. The two companies are purchasing the former Snoqualmie Winery property at the foot of Rattlesnake Ridge and plan to build a food-processing and distribution center on part of the land.

Gene Orrico, part owner of K&N Meats, said he doesn't know where the merger stands now.

"This is tragic . . . almost unbelievable. George was one of the last true gentlemen. It is going to be a loss," Orrico said.

Active in community affairs for many years, Swenson most recently was deeply involved with local, state and federal officials in trying to put together a plan to resolve flooding in Snoqualmie.

"He had so many visions for the city. . . . We have lost a good friend," said Snoqualmie Mayor Jeanne Hansen. "He was one of the first people I met when I arrived in Snoqualmie 30 years ago. We sang in the church choir together."

Earl Palmeter, a close friend for more than 15 years, said Swenson "loved this little town."

"He was always in the middle of everything and anything that had to do with the town. I once accused him of having Snoqualmie-itis," Palmeter said.

For example, Swenson didn't want to build his new plant anywhere other than in Snoqualmie; he wanted the city to get the tax revenue, Palmeter said. He also recalls working with Swenson in the mid-1970s against a proposal to build a satellite airport in the Upper Snoqualmie Valley.

Battey said funeral plans will be announced later.