NRHA Dedicates Facility to Willis Swan

By Rachel Dahl — Members of the Nevada Rural Housing Authority Board of Directors, along with Deputy Director Bill Brewer, recently visited Fallon to honor posthumously, past board member Willis Swan. Swan served on the NRHA board for fifteen years, beginning his tenure in 2003 while serving on the Fallon City Council. For many of those years, he served with County Commissioner Gwen Washburn, traveling back and forth across rural Nevada to meetings. Brewer delivered comments regarding Swan’s service to the NRHA, quoting from remarks that were made at Dwight Eisenhower’s memorial service over 50 years ago, saying “these words personify Willis very well.” “The superior man is dedicated to service…superior men are humble-minded and teachable and they learn from passers-by…the superior man lasts, he wears well.” Swan’s widow, Janet spoke to the crowd, acknowledging her appreciation to the board for their recognition. “Willis loved NRHA and he felt that the mission was important because it provided low-income housing for families, elderly, and handicapped people… and in many instances a helping hand to a better future.” Janet said that she and Willis lived in Fallon for 47 years, and raised their two children here. She said Willis was very modest person and he loved serving the community. “He would particularly pleased to have this room dedicated in his name…and I thank you all very much.” City Councilman Bob Erickson delivered remarks on behalf of Mayor Ken Tedford, who could not attend the ceremony due to health issues. Mayor Tedford said Swan’s achievements were too numerous to note, but “above all, Willis was totally dedicated to his work on the NRHA where he served since 2003. It’s truly appropriate to honor and dedicate the community room here at this facility in Willis’ name.” Erickson went on to make his own remarks to the crowd of 40 people gathered to pay respects to Swan who passed away in June of 2018. “Willis enjoyed being a member of the board for the past 15 years of the NRHA board,” he said. “From its modest beginnings to the major role it plays now in providing home ownership opportunities to rural nevada citizens, as well as developing residential living conditions for those less fortunate, especially during this past decade of very difficult economic times, Willis served his fellow Nevadans.” “Willis’s number one priority in his entire life,” said Erickson, “was you, Janet, you Betty, and Alan,” directing his comments to Janet and daughter, Betty. The Swan’s son Alan passed away in 1997. Remarks were also given by Rose Cook, NRHA Chairman and Roger Mancebo the Vice-Chairman who served with Swan for his fifteen years. A brief video of clips from the ceremony can be viewed here: NRHA Honors Willis Swan