Steven Wayne Swanson, 74, of Thief River Falls MN, passed away Wednesday February 9 ^th, 2022.

Steve was born January 24 ^th , 1948 to Chester and Beverly (Thune) Swanson in Thief River Falls, MN. He attended grade school and graduated from Deer River High School in 1966. He enlisted and served in the United States Army from 1968-1970. Steve served in the 75 ^th MACV unit and was Rifleman of his platoon.

He was united in marriage to Laurel Jean Rude on July 18 ^th , 1968 at Grace Lutheran Church in Grygla, MN. Laurel is, and was, the love of his life. The couple made their home in rural Thief River Falls where they lived until 1996, at which time they relocated into town. Together they raised 3 children: Michael, Michelle, and Jeremy.

Steve was a jack of all trades and held many jobs throughout his life. He did carpentry work, was a jeweler, and worked in the oil fields of western ND.  He finally settled in as a rural mail carrier out of Red Lake Falls, MN., where he retired 2012.

Growing up and throughout his life Steve enjoyed being outdoors, shooting rifles, hunting, and fishing. He especially enjoyed riding motorcycle, snowmobiling, and fixing on them. He enjoyed spending time with his family, grandchildren, and friends.

Steve is survived in death by his wife of 53 years, Laurel Swanson of Thief River Falls. His children; Michael Swanson of Thief River Falls, Michelle (Brian) Benitt of Thief River Falls, Jeremy Swanson of Fargo. Grandchildren; Dylin Davidson, Jacob and Kayli Swanson, Megan, Eryn, and Keegan Benitt, Liviana, Scarlett, and Porter Swanson. Siblings; Debra Johnson, Rick Houston, and Ricky (Char) Swanson. In-Laws; Richard Rude, LuAnn (Duane) Lusignan, David (Jade) Rude, Julie (Les) Trandem. As well as many nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends.

He is preceded in death by Beverly Houston (Mother), Chester (Father) and Janet (Stepmother) Swanson, Duane Swanson (Brother), Scott Houston (Brother), Karla Thompson (Sister). In-laws; Clifford Rude, Fay and Harvey Ness. Grandchild; Grady Benitt

An open house celebration of life will be held from 1:00 PM until 4:00 PM on Saturday, February 19, 2022 at Quality Inn in Thief River Falls, MN.