Obituary of Eldora L. Swenson

Eldora Lorraine (Johnson) Swenson of West Duluth died on Jan. 7, 2016 at the age of 94 at Essentia Health Center after a short illness. Eldora was born on June 5, 1921 in Eagle Bend, Minn., to John and Jennie (Alm) Johnson, the youngest of six children. She grew up on the family farm, was confirmed in Petri Lutheran Church, and graduated from Eagle Bend High School and the Minnesota School of Business in St. Cloud, Minn. She was employed by Pillsbury Mills in Minneapolis during World War II. In 1949 she married Clifford M. Swenson and moved to Duluth where they raised their family. After 21 years of employment as a secretary at West Jr. High School and CAB (Central Admin. Bldg.) she retired from ISD 709 in 1984. Eldora was a long-time member of Our Savior's Lutheran Church, the Naomi Circle, 55+ Club, the West Duluth Women's Club, and Grand Book Club. Reading was a lifelong passion. In response, she dedicated over 40 years of service to her beloved OSL Church library. As a 14 year resident of Faith Haven Apts., she enjoyed the comradery of many friends and the varied activities that were offered. Eldora was a gentle spirit with a sincere interest in the well-being of others. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband; three sisters: Alice Nyberg, Myrtle Johnson, and Frances Hahn; two brothers: Everett and Clifford Johnson and granddaughter Amber Conboy. She is survived by sons Paul (Judy) of Cambridge, Minn., Andrew (Cindy) of Fargo, N.D.; daughter Jennifer (Michael Conboy) of Duluth; five grandchildren: Nadine (Jason) Swenson, Peirce (Hiro) and Blake Conboy, Anna (Andrew) Schalkwyk, and Erika (Matthew) Schuld; five great-grandchildren: Megan, Lydia, Caleb, Quinn Johnson and Kyla Swenson; nieces and nephews, extended family and dear friends. RECEPTION OF FAMILY AND FRIENDS WITH REFRESHMENTS: 2 p.m. until the 3 p.m. Celebration of Life on Friday, Jan. 22, 2016, in the Cremation Society of Minnesota Chapel, 4100 Grand Ave. Memorials may be designated to the Our Savior's Lutheran Church Foundation, the Duluth Public Library or donor's choice.