MOUNT HOREB - Herbert Clayton Swingen, age 87 of rural Mount Horeb died on Monday morning, October 21, 2013 at home with his wife and daughter by his side. He was born on July 1, 1926 in Forward, Perry Township, Dane County, Wisconsin near the family home farm to Helmer Clarence and Clara Eliza (Knudtson) Swingen. Herb grew up in Forward, just down the road from the family farm where he started farming when he was around 12 years old. He went to the Forward country school. He was a lifelong member of the Perry Lutheran Church where he was baptized and confirmed. When he finished his schooling he started farming full-time with his family. He was married on September 7, 1956 in the Perry Lutheran Church to Marlene Janette Altmann. They farmed together for the remainder of their lives right up until his death. Herb loved music, and was very active throughout his life playing many instruments, but was best known for playing bass. Herb loved his farm, the land, his animals, and especially his family, his wife, daughter and son-in-law.

Herb is survived by his wife, Marlene Swingen of rural Mount Horeb; one daughter, Sharon (Rick) Feiertag of Rice Lake; one brother, Russell (Virginia) Swingen of Argyle; one niece, one nephew and cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents.

Private funeral services will be held with burial in the Perry Lutheran Church cemetery. Online memories and condolences can be shared with the family at www.saetherfuneralhome.com. The Saether Funeral Home in Blanchardville is assisting the family.