A. Swearingen

Ansel Van Swearingen, 88, died at his home in Artesia, August 24, 2003. Van was born June 7, 1915 in Carrizozo, N.M. to the late A.V. Swearingen, Sr. and Mary Ann Swearingen. PClosed casket services will be at 10:00 A.M. Wednesday, August 27 at First United Methodist Church with Rev. Paul D. Duerksen officiating followed by Masonic graveside services at Woodbine Cemetery. PHe married Gayle Sharp on March 7, 1936 at her parent's home in Dexter, N.M. He worked and they lived in Carrizozo until 1942 when he joined the U.S. Border Patrol. In 1944 he was called into the Armed Service; spent two years in the Philippines, then back to the Border Patrol for two more years. In 1948, he and his wife moved to Artesia where he worked for Guy Tire amp; Supply. He accepted the job as manager of Artesia Wool Coop in 1953 and worked there 30 years, retiring in 1983. In that job he made many lifetime friends as he worked with ranchers, sheepmen and wool buyers. PHe was a member of First United Methodist Church since 1948; in the Scottish Rite, a Shriner, and member of the Masonic Lodge where he was Past Worshipful Master in 1954. He later served as Treasurer for 15 years. PHe was preceded in death by his sister-in-law Jewell Clements. PVan is survived by his wife Gayle of the home; brother-in-law Woodrow Clements, niece Judy Clements Rivers, and nephews Bill Clements and wife Cookie and John Clements and wife Beth all of McIntosh, N.M.; nephew Joe Clements and wife Stephanie of Gilbert, Ariz.; and numerous great-nieces and nephews. PPallbearers will be Joe Clements, Bill Clements, John Clements, Michael Casabonne, Eddie Guy, and Murnie Cauhape.
Memorial contributions may be made to First United Methodist Church, P.O. Box 1492, Artesia, NM 88211 or Lakeview Christian Hospice Care, 1300 N. Canal, Carlsbad, NM 88220.