John Jerome Swan

In Loving Memory of John Jerome Swan

Wapi-way-oh-way-oh

March 11, 1951 – September 9, 2026

With heavy hearts and deep love, we announce the passing of John Jerome Swan, known by his Indian name Wapi-way-oh-way-oh, who began his journey home on September 9, 2026. John was surrounded by his loved ones upon his passing, held in the love of his family and those closest to him.

John was born on March 11, 1951, in Toppenish, Washington, to John Leonard Swan and Charlot Fiander. He was enrolled in the Yakama Nation and was also Chippewa Cree. John grew up Catholic and attended the longhouse. In 1987, he received his Indian name in Dry Creek, a name that became part of the story he carried throughout his life.

John was a man whose life was deeply rooted in family, community, tradition, and service. He carried with him the values of those who came before him and passed his love, stories, humor, and memories on to those who came after him.

One of the greatest loves of John’s life was his wife, Ellen Marie Swan. Their story began when they met on March 6, 1971, and on March 25, 1972, they were married. They shared a life filled with family, laughter, hardships, memories, and love. When Ellen passed away on December 6, 2025, a great part of John’s heart went with her. Those who knew John knew how much he loved his wife. Their bond remained with him until the end.

John leaves behind his children, John Jason Swan, Jarod Alan Swan, Julia Catherine Swan, Janine Charlotte Swan, and Jordan Lee Swan, and his 14 grandchildren, who brought him tremendous love and pride.

He is also survived by his brother, Nick Swan.

John was preceded in death by his siblings Thomas Swan, Timothy Swan, and Paul Swan.

He held many loved ones close to his heart, including Andrew and Anthony Swan, Joni Swan, Gabe Swan, Judy Halttunen, and Jerry and Angie Hert, as well as his extended family, relatives, friends, and community.

A Life of Service

John dedicated decades of his life to serving the Yakama people.

From 1972 to 1973, he served as a Yakama Nation Jailer. In 1973, he attended the police academy, and in 1974 he joined the Yakama Nation Tribal Police Department. He served there until 1989 and earned the rank of Sergeant in 1978.

In 1989, John began a new chapter of service with the Fish and Game Gate Guard Program, becoming its coordinator. He remained dedicated to this work until his retirement in 2021.

For nearly five decades, John gave his time, strength, and knowledge in service to his people. His work was more than a career—it was a part of the life he chose to give to his community.

The Man We Will Remember

Away from his work, John was happiest doing the things he loved with the people he loved.

He loved hunting, cruising through the mountains, cooking, and spending time with his family. He loved a good story and was never afraid to tell one. He had a way of bringing laughter into a room with his goofy jokes, his sense of humor, and his unmistakable laugh.

His hunting stories will be remembered for years to come. So will the stories that seemed to get better every time they were told.

And then there was his cooking—especially his chili, which many would proudly say was the best chili ever.

These simple things are what make a life rich: sitting together, sharing food, telling stories, laughing until your stomach hurts, remembering those who came before, and making memories that become part of the family forever.

John loved his wife, children, grandchildren, family, and friends deeply. He loved his people and the community he served.

His grandchildren will carry his memory in the stories they hear about him, in the laughter they remember, and in the lessons passed down through their family. His children will carry the memory of their father. His family and friends will carry the sound of his laughter and the stories that only John could tell quite the same way.

And those who loved John will always remember the man behind the stories—the husband who loved his wife, the father who loved his children, the grandfather who loved his grandchildren, the friend who brought laughter, and the man who gave so many years of his life in service to his people.

John’s journey here has come to an end, but his story does not end with his passing.

His name will continue to be spoken.

His stories will continue to be told.

His laughter will continue to be remembered.

His love will continue through his children and grandchildren.

And the memories he left with his family and community will be carried forward.

May he now be reunited with his beloved Ellen and those who went before him.

May John Jerome Swan, Wapi-way-oh-way-oh, walk peacefully into the next journey, surrounded by the love of his family, his people, his ancestors, and all those who loved him.

Funeral Services

Dressing services will be held at Valley Hills Funeral Home in Wapato, WA on September 11, 2026, at 11:00 a.m., with Rosary and Washat dressing.

Following dressing services, John will be transported to the White Swan Community Center for overnight services beginning at 7:00 p.m., with a midnight traditional meal.

Services will begin at 5:00 a.m. on September 12, 2026, followed by transportation to his final resting place at Logie-Umtuch Cemetery.

Acknowledgment

The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to the DaVita team in Zillah, Washington, for the care, compassion, and support they provided to John and his family.

Forever loved. Forever remembered. Forever a part of his family and his people.