Dean A Swanson

With heartbreak, we announce the passing of Dean Adolph Swanson. Dean wore many labels: husband, father, grandfather, uncle and friend. No matter what the acquaintance, all who knew him were blessed with one-liners, long conversations, smiles and a heart of gold. 

Dean passed away on Saturday, January 14, 2023 at the age of 74, after a hard-fought battle with health issues.  A farmer at heart, Dean enjoyed the outdoors … hunting, fishing and gardening. He also greatly enjoyed good food!  But most of all, Dean loved his family. His family is what motivated him to get up in the morning and keep fighting to see the next day.  He was a man of his word, and would go the extra mile to do a favor for anyone – a lesson he taught by example.

Dean was born on December 31, 1948 to Adolph and Helen Swanson in Sand Creek, WI.  After graduating from Colfax High School in 1966, he worked at Dachel Farm Equipment in Eagleton. Eventually he moved back to Sand Creek to run the family farm alongside his brother, Allen, until 1994.  After deciding to move on from farming, Dean worked for American Materials, pouring concrete.  He stayed with the company until retirement.  In 1968, he met and fell in love with Susan Frisle. They were married on October 10, 1970. Dean and Sue would go on to have 2 children, Nicholas (Nick) and Melissa (Missy).  Dean was a wonderful and devoted father and husband.  After retirement, Dean focused on his family and friends.  He loved watching his grandchildren in all their endeavors.  Dean had many very close friends, who he would speak of often. Up until his final days he looked forward to his Friday lunches with his best friend, Lynn and Sunday Packer games with his brother, Allen.

Dean is survived by his wife, Susan; his children, Nick Swanson and Missy (Eric) Knutson; his grandchildren, Noah, Austin, Alex, Bella, Gavin, Cale and Clay; his brother, Allen; his sister-in-law, Cindi (Jim) Bloomquist, his nephew Derek (Catherine) Rockow, and many close friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Adolph and Helen Swanson.  

There will be a celebration of life at a later date.