Sven was born in Connecticut on 13 February 1933.  Prior to his entry into the U. S. Naval Academy, he was active in high school affairs, and participated in California Boys State. As a Midshipman, he participated in battalion football, but crew was his real joy.  He won his varsity “N” for crew First Class year.

Following graduation on 1 June 1956, he embarked on a unique and successful career in Naval Aviation.  First came flight training, and then a number of tours in operational fighter squadrons. He flew one hundred successful F-4 combat missions in Vietnam, and was awarded seven Air Medals.  He had two tours at the Naval Post Graduate School, earning both a Bachelor of Science degree in Aeronautical Engineering, and a Master of Science degree in Management Systems.  In 1967, Sven became an Aviation Engineering Duty Officer, and commenced a seven year involvement in the F-14 / Phoenix Missile program. He was awarded the Meritorious Service Medal for his performance of duty.

Sven retired from the Navy as a Commander in 1978, and continued to provide support to Naval Aviation programs in positions with Computer Science Corporation, and in 1986, Arthur D. Little, Inc.   He died in Coronado, CA on 6 March 1987.  He left behind his wife, Jody, and four children: Erik, Kris, Britt, and Jon.