Lyle Swenson

Lyle Merlyn Swenson, son of Swen and Alvina (Roisum) Swenson, was born March 21, 1930 in Hancock, Minnesota. He was baptized and confirmed by Reverend Juel at Our Redeemer's Lutheran Church. Lyle attended Hancock High School and later went on to attain his GED. He served his country during the Korean War as Sergeant of the Mess Hall in the United States Army. On October 1, 1955, he was united in marriage to Shirley M. Jenson. Following their marriage they moved to Hancock where they raised their family. During this time Lyle was a truck driver for Swen's Trucking, was self-employed as a farmer, and in later years, found great joy in being co-owner of B & S Parts with his son Jim. Lyle was active in the area, serving on the Board of Directors for Prairie Community Services, chairing the Stevens County DFL organization, and portraying Santa Claus for 35 years. Lyle appreciated the beauty of nature; he took great pride in his vegetable gardens, the birds that frequented his many feeders, and numerous camping and fishing trips with family. Excursions with his loyal and faithful dog, Scooter, were a highlight of his day. Lyle most enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren, family, and friends. He will be remembered for his quick wit, practical jokes, and frequent one-liners. Lyle passed away on Saturday, October 30, 2010, at the Courage Cottage in Morris, Minnesota, having lived to reach the age of 80 years. Lyle is survived by his wife: Shirley Swenson of Hancock; three children: Beth (Scott) Smedstad of Starbuck, Jim (Andrea) Swenson of Hancock, and Lyn (Rusty) Gwost of Little Falls; six grandchildren: Anna Smedstad, Alex, Zachary, and Carter Gwost; and Austin and Abbigayle Swenson; sisters: Marvis McRoberts of El Cajon, CA, Ruby Olson of Morris, Donna (Sidney) Rustad of Clontarf, and Jean Hollen of Chokio; one sister-in-law: LeVone Swenson of Barron, WI; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers: Jerroll and Roger Swenson; one sister: Dorothy Mazurek; three brothers-in-law: William Mazurek, Gordon McRoberts, and Selmer Olson; and one sister-in-law: Olga Swenson. Pallbearers for the service are: Craig Swenson, Steve Swenson, Carter Swenson, Josh Hollen, Ted Hollen, John Rustad, Dennis Rustad and Mike Olson. Honorary Pallbearers will be: Bill Grandjean, Bill Myers, Don Schmidgall, Dave Joos, Larry Greiner, Gary Greiner, Don Greiner, Jeff Perreault, Sidney Rustad, Bill Jenson and Vernon Jenson. Sandy Pahl will serve as organist for the service.