Mark E. Swanson

Mark E. Swanson (1959–2025)

Mark Edgar Swanson, 65, of Breckenridge, Colorado, wrapped up his final chapter on February 28, 2025, passing peacefully at home after a courageous fight with liver failure. A man of many adventures, countless friends, and even more opinions, Mark lived fast, laughed hard, and loved generously.

Born and raised in Bridgeport, Connecticut, Mark called Breckenridge home for over 30 years, founding and running All Phase Construction. Those who knew him best will remember him for his legendary stories, mischievous nature, and ability to cook a perfect meal—usually while planning the next. He took Sunday mornings seriously, serving up hash and eggs before launching into a new or well-worn story. A true foodie, Mark mastered the art of a perfectly cooked scallop, could clean a pound of shrimp in record time, and no plate of huevos rancheros ever stood a chance in his presence.

Mark lived many colorful lives. He served in the U.S. Navy, rode Harleys, practiced martial arts, and loved fishing for his dinner in the Florida Keys—though his best catches were usually the stories that came with them. A skilled pilot for decades, he loved the adventure of jumping in his plane, taking off, and landing somewhere just in time for lunch—always with a new tale to tell.

In 2017, Mark was given a second chance at life with a liver transplant, granting his friends and family seven more years of his laughter, stories, and unforgettable presence. His family extends heartfelt gratitude to the transplant team at UCHealth Anschutz and, most of all, to the selfless organ donor who unknowingly gave him the gift of time. To all organ donors—you don’t just save lives; you create more moments, more laughter, and more stories worth telling. Mark lived his final years with deep gratitude for the incredible gift he received.

Mark is preceded in death by his parents, Yvette and Gerard Swanson, his loyal dog Ranger, and too many close friends to name. He is survived by his niece Lauren Swanson of Breckenridge; brothers David Swanson and Gary Swanson of Cape Coral, FL; sister-in-law Lisa Luperella of Trumbull, CT; godparents Vivian and John Gingolaski of Bridgeport, CT; ex-wife Ricki Swanson of Rochester, NY; and estranged wife Deborah Swanson of Breckenridge. In his final months, as his health declined, it was his true friends and family that stood by him. While Mark had hundreds of companions, special recognition goes to his longtime friend and caretaker Gary Myers and his partner Laurie Collins, who selflessly helped him navigate his last six months, providing care, comfort, and an endless supply of dirty jokes that kept him grinning.

A celebration of Mark’s life will be held on May 10 in Breckenridge at the home of his close friend Kim Pennington (14774 Highway 9), with another gathering in Bridgeport, CT, in mid-July (details to come). In lieu of flowers, consider becoming an organ donor. Someone out there is waiting for their second chance, just like Mark once was. And if you really want to honor Mark, buy a round for your friends, give the dog a full piece of bacon, embrace a little mischief, and whatever you do, don’t overcook the shrimp.