Emil Swanson, 93, died on Wednesday, August 11, 2004 at the CNC unit of the Northwest Medical Center in Thief River Falls, MN.

Emil Gilman Swanson was born on July 18, 1911 on the family farm in rural Thief River Falls, MN to Peter P. and Ella (Peterson) Swanson. He was baptized on September 3, 1911 by Pastor Lockram and confirmed on June 2, 1926 at the Oak Ride Lutheran Church. He attended country school at the Rosevelt Country School.

He was united in marriage to Evelyn Helgenset on June 24, 1950 in Bemidji. They made their home on a farm west of Thief River Falls where Emil continued to farm. In addition to farming, Emil was employed by the Highway Department. He then worked for Walker Sand & Gravel of Thief River Falls during the 1950s and 1960s. Emil was most recently employed by Arctic Cat, retiring from there in 1982. Emil and Evelyn moved from their farm into Thief River in 1982. Emil and Evelyn moved into Riverside Terrace Apartments in March of this year.

Emil was an avid hunter and fisherman. He loved the outdoors. He also enjoyed music and dancing. He was a member of the Oak Ridge Lutheran Church where he currently was the oldest living member and the longest member. He was also a member of the Eagles.

Emil is survived by his wife Evelyn, Thief River Falls, MN; one daughter Sharon Andrews (Jim Holladay), Nashville, TN; one grandson David (Maurine) Andrews, Dover, DE; one great grandchild William Andrews; one sister Clara Larson, Bellingham, WA; and four nephews and three nieces.

He was preceded in death by his parents, one sister Alice Diddy, and one brother Palmer.


ORGANIST: Louise Solseng
SOLOIST: Diane Klemtson
SELECTIONS: How Great Thou Art, God Will Take Care of You, Softly and Tenderly, Precious Memories, Because He Live, One Day at a Time.
CONGREGATIONAL HYMNS:
PALLBEARERS: John Helgenset, Rodney Helgenset, Duane Vatsaas, Duane Nelson,
HONORARY PALLBEARERS: