On Sunday, November 17, 2024, the world lost a beacon of joy and curiosity in the passing of Hayden Nicholas Swogger, aged just five years old. Born on September 29, 2019, in Traverse City, Michigan, Hayden brought light and love to everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.
His untimely departure leaves an irreplaceable void, but his legacy of laughter, adventure, and boundless curiosity lives on in the hearts of his family, friends, and community.
Hayden was the beloved son of Nicolas Patrick and Tori (Waite) Swogger, whose love and devotion provided the foundation for his bright and adventurous life. He was a kindergartener at Kingsley Public Schools, where he thrived academically and socially.
His teachers and classmates were captivated by his boundless energy, inquisitive nature, and ever-present smile. From an early age, Hayden’s fascination with vehicles and machines became apparent. Cars, trucks, and anything with a motor sparked his imagination.
His love for off-roading and racing defined many joyful moments spent with family and friends. Whether attending thrilling races or riding his own tractor on the family’s track, Hayden’s passion for motion and adventure was infectious.
Hayden embodied the heart of an explorer, blending his love for adventure with a vivid imagination. He loved dirt biking with his mom and dad, spending countless hours in the garage dreaming up projects, and working alongside his parents with remarkable focus and creativity.
He was known for his ability to connect with people of all ages, always surprising others with his thoughtful questions and bright observations. Saturday, November 16, 2024, became a memory cherished by all who loved him.
During his last outing, Hayden joined his dad at deer camp, a milestone he had been eagerly anticipating. Dressed in matching vests and hats lovingly prepared by his mom, he displayed patience and pride throughout the day.
His little gun by his side and a race car packed “just in case,” Hayden’s joy radiated as he embraced the outdoors. This day reflected his spirit of love, gratitude, and adventure—a perfect reflection of who he was.
Hayden’s love extended deeply to his family and his beloved dogs, Cleetus “TT,” Cheyenne, and Clyde. Whether spending time with his parents, his grandparents “Pampaw” Pat, Grandma Sherry, and Grammy Karen, or his many aunts, uncles, and cousins, Hayden’s warmth brought them closer.
He was particularly fond of lending a helping hand to his mom and dad in their projects, often surprising them with his mechanical ingenuity. He is survived by his parents, Nick and Tori Swogger, grandparents Pat and Sherry Swogger, and Karen Waite, as well as a loving network of family and friends.
Though his time on earth was brief, Hayden’s life was filled with moments of laughter, love, and adventure. Hayden’s passing leaves an enduring mark on the community.
His infectious joy, adventurous heart, and keen curiosity touched countless lives, and he will be remembered as a child who truly lived each moment to the fullest. His bright smile, endless imagination, and the warmth he brought to others will forever echo in the hearts of all who knew him.
Visitation services will be held on Thursday, November 21, 2024, from 4-7 pm at the Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home in Traverse City, Michigan. Funeral services will follow on Friday, November 22, 2024, at 11 am, with a visitation hour preceding the service at 10 am, also at the funeral home.
In keeping with Hayden’s passions, guests are encouraged to wear their favorite motorsports or hot rod apparel to honor his love for vehicles. Memorial contributions can be directed to the “Support Hayden Swogger” GoFundMe webpage, established by close friends to celebrate his memory and support his family during this time of grief.
Though Hayden’s time on earth was tragically short, his impact was profound. His spirit lives on through the cherished memories of those who loved him. Rest in peace, sweet Hayden. You will forever be missed and remembered.
