Brad Lauren Swanson, died Wednesday, October 31, 2018 at his home in Baltimore, MD, with his Dad, Skip, 'cuz Talli' and his dear friends Jeff and Jane by his side.  Brad was 59 years, 11 months and 17 days old.

Brad was born November 14, 1958 to parents Oliver 'Skip' and Patricia (Torkelson) Swanson.  He was baptized and confirmed at Calvary Lutheran Church, St. Hilaire, MN.  He attended Northrup Elementary, Franklin Middle School and graduated from Lincoln High School in 1977. Brad was in track, Student Senate and band.  He also played the French Horn in Northland Community Band.  He was a member of 4-H and enjoyed showing and riding horses.  He competed in Barrel Racing and other competitions. While in High School, he worked for Bjorkman's, Pizza Hut and construction with his Dad.  Brad received his Bachelor of Science (Speech Pathology and Audiology), May 23, 1981 from ND State University.  He received a Doctorate of Psychology and Master of Science from Texas Tech. University, May 13, 1983.

Brad moved to Baltimore from Texas to work shock trauma at MD University Hospital. During this time, Brad travelled to places in India, Germany and Argentina for lecturing and teaching. He had great memories from these trips.  Later he worked for Doctors Community Hospital and Future Care. When not working, Brad enjoyed the sun and sand of Aruba and other islands.

Brad was a loving and devoted son and brother.  He had a generous heart and didn't hesitate to give.  Brad would walk into a room full of people and know something about each person before he left.  His interest in the people he met was sincere. He was a 'Master' of 'gotcha' humor, very convincing.

Brad is survived by his father, Skip (Oliver) Swanson of Thief River Falls, MN and many aunts, uncles, cousins and friends.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Patricia Swanson and his brother, Kevin Swanson, grandparents George C. and Katherine Swanson, Anton and Ellen Torkelson and Aunt Eleanor, Uncles Dennis, Donald, Chester and Clifford Swanson.

We give thanks for his life.

May his memory be blessed.

Visitation will be 6 to 8 PM Friday December 14, 2018 at Johnson Funeral Service, Thief River Falls, MN.

A Memorial service will be held at 11 AM, Saturday December 15, 2018 at St. Pauli Lutheran Church, rural Thief River Falls, MN, with Reverend Carl Hanson officiating.