Captain Douglas M. Swain, 78, of New Bedford died January 12, 2021 peacefully at home.
He was the husband of Claudette E. (Verville) Swain.
Born in New Bedford, son of the late Robert J. and Helen F. (Goss) Swain, he lived in New Bedford all of his life.
He was formerly employed as a fisherman for many years retiring as captain of F/V Ambassador. Doug had a great relationship with his crew and the owner Geir Tonnessen.
He served in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War. Doug received the Purple Heart and the VietnamService Medal with 2 bronze stars.
He enjoyed going to Fort Phoenix to watch the boats.
Survivors include his wife; a son, Justin Swain of New Bedford; a daughter, Brenda Swain of Wareham; a sister, Anne Swain of Fairhaven; 3 grandchildren, Crystal, Heather and Amanda; 5 great-grandchildren, Ian, Brandon, Ashley, Kailen and Aiden; and numerous nieces and nephews.
He was the father of the late Robert Swain and Penny Fonseca and the brother of the late Paul Swain, Donald Swain, Robert Swain, Mary Murphy, Patricia Dion, Gerard Swain and Sheila Lopes.
His Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Monday, January 18th at 9 AM in at Holy Name of the Sacred Heart of Jesus Church. Burial will be private. Visiting hours are omitted. Arrangements are with the Saunders-Dwyer Home for Funerals, 495 Park St., New Bedford. In lieu of flowers, remembrances may be made to the Veterans Transition House, 344 County St., New Bedford, MA 02740.
Please be advised that due to the Covid-19 pandemic, there are strict guidelines that must be adhered to for the safety of everyone. You MUST wear a mask to be allowed entry to the services. Please practice social distancing and avoid any close contact. Capacity at church is 168 guests. Thank you in advance for your cooperation.