Hayden Nicholas Swogger, 5 passed away on Sunday November 17, 2024.

Hayden was born on September 29, 2019, in Traverse City, Michigan, to Nicolas Patrick and Tori (Waite) Swogger.

Hayden was a kindergartener at Kingsley Public Schools, where he was thriving in his first year of school. He loved learning new things and making friends, charming everyone he met with his bright smile and boundless curiosity.

From a young age, Hayden's world revolved around vehicles and machines. Whether it was cars, trucks, buggies, or drag racers, if it had a motor, Hayden loved it. He especially adored off-roading and attending races, where he could sit for hours, captivated by the excitement. Hayden had his own tractor and spent countless happy hours riding around the track on his family's property. He also enjoyed riding dirt bikes with his mom and dad, always ready for the next adventure.

Hayden had a remarkable imagination and a knack for all things mechanical. He loved books, asking questions, and figuring out how things worked, always eager to learn and help. With a creative and "woodsy" mind, he was constantly surprising his parents with his ideas and observations. Hayden had a way of connecting with everyone, lighting up every room he entered.

He cherished time spent in the garage and shop with his mom and dad, assisting with their projects and dreaming up new ones of his own. On Saturday, during his last outing, Hayden fulfilled a special wish by joining his dad at deer camp. Dressed in matching vests and hats his mom had lovingly prepared, he sat patiently all day, proudly carrying his little gun and even packing a race car "just in case." It was a day filled with love, gratitude, and treasured memories.

Hayden is survived by his devoted parents, Nick and Tori Swogger; his "Pampaw" Pat and Grandma Sherry Swogger, his Grammy Karen Waite, his Uncle Steven (Samantha) Swogger, his Aunt Tawnya (Dennis) Hagy, his Uncle Justin (Senem) Waite, his Great Grandma Joanne Swogger, many great Uncles, Aunts, Cousins and countless friends. He is also survived by his beloved dogs, Cleetus "TT", Cheyenne and Clyde who were his constant companions.

He is preceded in death by his Papa Daniel Waite, and his great grandpa George Swogger.

Though his time with us was far too short, Hayden's adventurous spirit, endless curiosity, and bright smile left an indelible mark on everyone who knew him. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, November 21, 2024 from 4-7pm at the Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home in Traverse City. Funeral services will be held at 11am on Friday, November 22, 2024 with a visitation beginning at 10am also at the Funeral Home. Memorial contributions may be directed to "Support Hayden Swogger" Gofundme webpage that was created by close friends. If you would like, wear your favorite motorsports or hot rod apparel in tribute to Hayden.

Kindly share thoughts and memories with his family at www.reynolds-jonkhoff.com . You may also watch his funeral at rjfh.tv or on Hayden's webpage at a later time if you are not able to attend.