Lonnie Berry Swaynie Surrounded at his bedside by his family and very special friend Flo Twichell, our beloved father, brother, uncle, and friend peacefully went home to be with the Lord on Sunday, December 13, 2015, after a valiant and inspiring two-year battle against a rare brain disease. Lonnie (and twin brother Don) were born on August 26, 1953 in Mason Michigan to Calvin and Betty Swaynie. He worked as a Journeyman Brick Mason, Journeyman Stone Mason and Welder for over forty years and was a member of Bricklayers Local Union 2. Lonnie was very well respected and extremely talented; among many local landmarks displaying his talents are the arches on the Michigan historical museum in downtown Lansing. Lonnie loved spending time outdoors, golfing with his brothers, hunting, working in the garden, taking care of his chickens, and chasing his great nieces around. Lonnie was so proud of his daughter Elizabeth and for her accomplishments. Being able to see her graduate from the University of Michigan this Spring despite his illness was a tremendous joy to him. Greeting Lonnie and rejoicing at Heaven’s Door were his mother, Betty Swaynie; sister, Linda Ramsey very special nephew, Rick Swaynie, as well as other friends and family. Lonnie is loved dearly and survived by his daughter Elizabeth Swaynie, his twin brother Don Swaynie, brothers, Kieran, Walter, Bob, Virgil (Linda), David Swaynie; sisters Judy Velez (Jose) and Deborah (Terry) McCowen, and numerous nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends whom he loved so very much. Lonnie touched the lives of all who knew him. Throughout Lonnie’s courageous battle, he faced each day with dignity, determination, strength, kindness and the humor for which we have always known him. He defied all odds over the past two years and inspired many people, some whom have only heard his story. He was the bravest most humble and finest of men. Our family would like to thank all those who helped us care for Lonnie for their outstanding care and compassion, especially those at Sparrow in the Neuro-ICU on 10 West, Holt Senior Care and Rehab, and his special friend Flo, who rarely left his side. A celebration of Lonnie’s life will be held on January 23rd 2016 at Skinner Funeral Home in Eaton Rapids MI, with visitation beginning at 10am a service celebration of Lonnie’s life at 11am and a luncheon to follow. For online condolences please visit www.SkinnerFuneralHomes.com