Leah A. Swanson

Sioux Falls - Leah Anne Swanson, 42, of Sioux Falls, passed away on Monday, January 21st at Sanford USD Medical Center due to complications from Crohn's disease.

Leah was born October 15th, 1976 in Sioux Falls at Sioux Valley Hospital to Mark and Sarah "Sallie" (Friess) Swanson. She spent her childhood growing up in Sioux Falls attending Laura Wilder Elementary School, Edison Middle School, and graduated from Roosevelt High School in 1995.

In 1998, she traveled west to live in Seattle, Washington to attend the University of Washington. While in school, Leah enjoyed her time as a barista/supervisor at Starbucks. In 2003 she graduated with a bachelor's degree in History.

Leah returned to Sioux Falls in 2004 and spent time reconnecting with old friends and making new friends. In 2005, she moved to Las Vegas to live with her dad where she adopted her beloved Beagle Lucy. Leah and Lucy returned home to South Dakota in 2006, to spend time with family and friends.

Leah enjoyed spending time at the family's cabin at Lake Poinsett, and even resided in the cabin for some time. While in Sioux Falls Leah worked for Inter-Lakes Community Action Partnership and Waterbury Heating and Cooling.

Leah was an avid dog lover and always hoped to open a dog rescue center. Although that dream may not have come to fruition, she was a proud dog mom to Lucy and Marcellus Wallace (a 200 pound, black Great Dane).

Leah loved music, and to the delight of those who had the opportunity to hear her sing, had a beautiful singing voice. She enjoyed karaoke - some of her go-to favorites were "Jackson," "Coal Miner's Daughter," "Landslide," and "Crazy."

Leah was caring and loyal friend. She was whip smart, and had a passion for current events and politics. Her laugh and sense of humor were infectious. She was an avid reader, movie lover, and foodie. She enjoyed knitting and was the founding member of "Sioux Falls Stitch and Bitch" group, where she made life-long friendships and fond memories.

Leah was preceded in death by her mother, Sarah, both paternal and maternal grandparents, and uncle, Dr. Robert Friess.

Grateful for having shared her life are her father, Mark Swanson and his current wife of 20 years Alexandra Swanson of Las Vegas, Nevada, sister Laura Swanson of Seattle, Washington, aunts, uncles, cousins, and numerous friends.

Memorial services will be held at 1 p.m. on Saturday, February 2, 2019 at First Presbyterian Church, Sioux Falls.

In lieu of flowers the family asks that donations be made in Leah's name to the Sioux Falls Area Humane Society or Sanford Health Canine Ambassadors.

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Published by Argus Leader on Jan. 29, 2019.

Memories and Condolences
for Leah Swanson

Sponsored by Miller Funeral Home - Downtown.

3 Entries

Daniel Justice

February 3, 2019

from the first time we met at First Pres., to the nights talking and laughing with friends at Fry-n-Pan after shows, to the time that deer popped out on the road in wyoming and changed your plans for arriving in Washington...you were always a true friend. With a smile as big as her heart, she always cared sincerely about her family, friends, and society. You will be sorely missed, my deepest sympathies to the Swanson family and all who knew this heartwarming woman. peace

Ryon

February 2, 2019

Leah, you were always so kind. Especially when I was down. Your smile could only match your hard-headedness. Without a doubt, you are preparing for your sisters
Godspeed.

Karen Brokenleg

January 29, 2019

This young woman had a courage and determination we could all learn from. She withstood suffering that would have conquered most anyone, and those of us who knew her, even a little, grew to love her. This young woman was a gift to many. I am grateful our paths crossed, even if for a few moments. I will carry her in my heart. My love to all who loved, Leah.

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