Obituary of Robert Leland Swanson

Robert Leland Swanson passed away on December 14, 2015. Bob was born on November 27, 1937, in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Preceded in death by his parents, Axel & Inez (Soderquist) Swanson, his beloved wife of two-weeks shy of 55 years “Tot.” Also preceded in death by his sister Carol (Swanson) Kyle and brother-in-law C. Evert Larson. Survived by sister, Marian (Swanson) Larson and brother-in-law, Trevor Kyle; children, Robert “Rob” (Cindy) Swanson, Ronda (Scott) Hielscher, and Raquel Swanson; grandchildren, Alanna (Zac) Norick, Lucas Scott, Krista Swanson, and Sara Swanson; great-grandchildren, Vaida and Ellery Norick; many other nieces, nephews, family and friends. Bob grew up in Blaine, Minnesota. Bob was the consummate student earning three degrees—Bachelors of Arts and Masters of Arts (Spanish/Linguistics) from the University of Minnesota and Masters of Divinity from Bethel Seminary and further studies. After serving as missionaries in Mexico for five years with his family, Bob returned to Minnesota where he taught high school in the Anoka-Hennepin School District 11, as well as at colleges in the Twin Cities. Bob enjoyed music, academics and travel. He spent many years singing with various vocal groups. He enjoyed playing his keyboard/piano and spent much time listening to and playing the music he loved. He always wished he could have been a full-time student. Bob and Tot were fortunate to be very well traveled. The Minnesota State Fair was always a highlight to Bob’s summers. The family would like to thank the staff at Ecumen Lakeview Commons for the excellent, respectful and compassionate care. A memorial service will take place Sunday, January 24, 2016, at 2:00 pm at Bethlehem Baptist Church North Campus—5151 Program Avenue, Mounds View, MN 55112. In lieu of flowers, please send a memorial to the Minnesota State Services for the Blind, 2200 University Avenue W, Suite 240, Saint Paul, MN 55114 or organization of your choice.