Obituary of Robert John Swanlund

Robert Swanlund, age 94 of Newport, MN passed away November 13, 2016. Preceded in death by parents Martin and Sarah; wife Dorothy, brothers Howard and George. He is survived by brother Earl, children John (KC), Paul (Dawn), Bruce (Lori), 9 grandchildren and 9 great-grandchildren. Robert was a World War II vet who served in the Philippines and Japan as a squad leader with Company B 35th Infantry, 25th Division. After returning from the war, Robert worked on the family farm raising “The Best” strawberries, raspberries, sweet corn, musk melon, tomatoes, and squash in Cottage Grove & Newport with his dad and brothers. He enjoyed rifle deer hunting in his early years. Eventually he switched to archery hunting (and always from the ground), “to give the deer a chance”! His retirement years were spent with Dorothy traveling, bird watching, cross-country skiing, biking, and playing bridge. He loved to hike in the woods, read, play cribbage (he would take anyone on at any time!), (he once got a perfect score of 29 playing with Uncle Nick).Last but not least, he spent hours upon hours tending to his gardens through the 2015 season. Bob enjoyed the company of friends and family. He will be greatly missed by his children, grandchildren, great grandchildren, brother, relatives, and friends. A celebration of Bob's life will be held on Sunday, Nov 20, visitation from 1-5 and a sharing of memories at 2:00 PM at the Cremation Society, 1979 Old Hudson Road, St. Paul, MN 55119; 651-789-0404. Memorials preferred to HealthEast Hospice or to the Salvation Arm