LAKE COUNTY, Calif. – Michael Darrell Swaney passed away on May 5, 2017, with loved ones by his side. 

Mike was born Dec. 31, 1947, to Max and Foneta Swaney.

He moved from Reno to live with his dad at a young age and called Lake County home for more than 60 years.

Mike was the oldest of six brothers, one sister, and three step-brothers: Mary Anderson, Steve, Jim and Gene Guichu of Reno, Nev., and Mickey, Daniel Swaney, Jim, Bob and Billy Lovrin of Lake County.

He had three sons, Richard, Joseph and John Swaney, all of Lake County. All three of his boys remained close to him throughout his life. Mike's boys gave him four grandchildren: Jessica, Rebecca, Jeremiah and Janee Swaney.

Mike graduated from Upper Lake High School in 1966 and later in life attended Butte Junior College. Mike passed his state building inspector exam but spent most of his life working in the construction trades. 

Hard work defined him as a man and anyone who knew him said he was a hardworking man.

Mike loved racing stock cars. He started racing at Lakeport Speedway in 1974 and continued until 2012. 

He won a couple of track championships and lots of trophies, and he shared his love of racing with his kids and grandkids. Mike enjoyed a good time with cold beer and a lady by his side.

Upon his retirement, he spent several years cruising to the coast or whereever the road took him with his longtime companion, Lynn Speakman.

He was a big sports fan and never missed a game that his kids or grandkids played in, including the away games. Mike was a big Bay Area sports fan and always had an opinion on how his teams won or lost games.

Mike's life and accomplishments will be celebrated just the way he lived his life – with food and drinks! 

A celebration of life will be held at the Upper Lake Grange Hall in Upper Lake on Saturday, June 24, from 4 to 8 p.m.

For further information, please contact Chapel of the Lakes Mortuary at 707-263-0357 or 707-994-5611, or visit www.chapelofthelakes.com .