Lawrence "Swede" Malmberg

Swede Malmberg, 70, of Raynesford, passed away Thursday, JulySwede Malmbergs life began January 29th, 1944 - July 10, 2014, but OH, what a dash he had for 70 years!Swedes celebration of life will be held at noon, July 19th, at the Pond on the Owe Five Ranch, his favorite place on Earth. All are welcome to bring a chair, their lunch, and a favorite Swede memory.He grew up in Great Falls, married the love of his life, Cheryl Lawson, and they shared 50 blissful years together. He graduated from the College of Great Falls in 1966, his early career taking the couple to Omaha, Los Angeles, and Elizabeth, Colorado. They moved back to Great Falls in 1972 and soon after purchased the Owe Five Ranch in Raynesford.Swede had a long and successful sales career, spanning over 40 years in six states; his customers considered him a Legend in his field. His passion was his family, ranching, and being a firefighter. Swede was involved in the community, helping to establish Twin Towns baseball and Operation Santa. With his great friend Art Kirby, he founded Otter Creek Stage Company. Later he started Otter Creek Fire Department and was very active in training, packing three car batteries on his back for 5 miles. He gained his love for fire service from his dad, Captain Vic Malmberg. Swede was honored to be elected and to serve the county on the Judith Basin Fire Board. His firefighting passion included a wide collection of fire trucks and fire gear (we think he only owns dark blue FIRE t-shirts).His deep relationship with the LORD kept him safe on the road and at the ranch.Swede's soulmate Cheryl, his son Eric and wife Kathy, his daughter Wendi and husband Scott will continue his legacy of making classic family memories and record shots. His best little fishing buddies Skye, Sierra, Ava, and Danny will miss Papas fine cooking of ice cream and eggs. He is also survived by his sisters, Vicki Duff of Great Falls and Marla Malmberg of Spokane, WA.People can honor Swede's memory by donating to Otter Creek Fire Department10, at his ranch. Schnider Funeral Home is handling arrangements.