Timothy Swan

Timothy T. Swan, a distinguished United States Army veteran, dedicated public servant, devoted husband, and lifelong railroad enthusiast, passed away peacefully at home while under hospice care in Fayetteville, North Carolina, on September 24, 2026. He was 85 years old.

Tim lived a life marked by honor and service. His distinguished military career and many years of public service reflected his strong sense of duty and commitment to others, while his personal passions and enduring love of the outdoors revealed a man who found fulfillment in both service and the simple pleasures of life.

Tim retired from the United States Army with the rank of Lieutenant Colonel after a long and distinguished military career, both in active service and in Reserve. His service to his country included assignments with the 1st Special Forces Command (Airborne) and the 4th Infantry Division, among others. In recognition of his courage and service during combat, he received several of the nation's most respected military decorations, including the Silver Star Medal, Bronze Star Medal, and Purple Heart. These honors stand as a testament to his dedication, sacrifice, and commitment to the men and women with whom he served. Tim's military career was an important part of his life, and his service to the nation remains a lasting part of his legacy.

Tim, a graduate of the University of Wisconsin, continued his career in public service with the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, where he worked for many years as an auditor before fully retiring. Later in life, he also served as an officer of the Red Warrior Association, contributing his time and leadership to an organization important to him and his fellow veterans.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Tim was perhaps happiest pursuing his lifelong love of trains. His greatest hobby was HO-scale model railroading. He held a particular fondness for the Monon Railroad and was an active member of the Monon Railroad Historical Technical Society. Over the years, his model railroad layout and work attracted attention in magazines and articles, reflecting the care, craftsmanship, and enthusiasm he brought to the hobby. For Tim, model railroading was much more than a pastime; it was a lifelong passion that connected history, creativity, and friendship.

Tim and his beloved wife, Paquita, shared an active life filled with adventure and a love of the natural world. They enjoyed camping, hiking, and exploring the great outdoors, particularly the beautiful landscapes of Colorado and New Mexico. Their many cocker spaniels were cherished companions who were an important part of their lives and added immeasurable joy to their shared adventures.

Tim was preceded in death by his wife, Paquita; his stepson, Mark Steven Tew; and his sister, Kit. He is survived by his stepdaughter, Pamela (Ronnie) Hammond, his step-granddaughter, Stephanie Tew, his brother, Bill (Judy) Swan, and his sister, Shelley Meier, who will carry forward their own memories of Tim and the life they shared.

Tim will be remembered not only for his distinguished career and accomplishments, but also for his enduring passions, his love of trains and the outdoors, and the many memories shared with family, friends, and fellow enthusiasts. May he rest in peace.