Obituary published on Legacy.com by Carlson-Lillemoen Funeral Home and Cremation Services on May 22, 2025.
Daniel Joseph Swezey, affectionately known as Dan to his friends and family passed away of natural causes on May 20, 2025 at the age of 61 in
Cambridge, MN.
Born July 25, 1963, in Graceville, MN to Lawrence and Frances (Kipp) Swezey. Dan's early life was filled with the joys of farm life and small-town living, which shaped his friendly and generous spirit.
Dan was a proud graduate of Clinton High School, Class of 1981 and then Alexandria Vo-Tech, where he honed his skills in diesel mechanics. His journey began as various mechanic positions that showcased his talent for problem-solving and his ability to fix anything that came his way. His early career was transport and lights for the band The Whitesidewalls. Most of his career experienced every aspect of roofing and siding; including laborer, Business Owner, and Project Manager for Ascension Roofing in Isanti.
Beyond his professional endeavors, Dan was known for his deep passion for race cars, a hobby that allowed him to merge his mechanical prowess with the thrill of speed and competition. He found solace and joy in the rhythm of playing drums.
Dan was a man of many talents, which included the skilled operation of his sawmill. This allowed him to work with his hands and create beautiful pieces of work, a testament to his ability to see the potential in raw materials. His love for the outdoors was evident in his enthusiasm for fishing. Whether on the frozen lake or under the warm sun, Dan found peace and contentment at the water's edge, rod in hand.
His spirit of generosity extended beyond hobbies as he was always the first to offer help to those in need. Dan's loving nature made him a pillar in the lives of his friends and family, and his friendly demeanor ensured that he never met a stranger, only friends he hadn't yet made. Dan was proud of his two years of sobriety and continued to help others.
Those who knew Dan will remember him as a loving, generous, and friendly man who left an indelible mark on the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing him. His legacy will live on in the memories he created, the lives he touched, and the community he helped to build and support.
Dan was preceded in death by his parents, brother Bruce, sister-in-law Deb. Beloved dogs, Tucker "The Hound from The Pound" and Chevy, who were his faithful companions and brought immeasurable joy to his life.
Dan is survived by sister "Sis" Carla (Lyle) Giersdorf, Moose Lake, MN, stepdaughter Misty Leeann, Redlands, CA, niece Greta (Chad) Dahlberg, Blue Earth, MN, nephew and godson Matthew Giersdorf, military; godson John Reese, special and dear friends Paul, Brian and Tony.
As we say farewell to Daniel Joseph Swezey, we celebrate a life well-lived, filled with passion, kindness, and unwavering commitment to others. His departure leaves a void that cannot be filled, but his spirit will continue to inspire and guide us. Dan's life story is a reminder to cherish every moment, extend a helping hand whenever possible, and pursue our passions with all our hearts.
Rest in peace, dear Dan. Your memory will forever be a beacon of love and generosity in the lives of those you've left behind.
In lieu of flowers or memorials, please be kind and helpful to someone that needs it, in memory of Dan.
Celebration of Life Gathering 5-7 PM, Thursday June 5, 2025 at The Foundation Room at Leader Restaurant, 133 Main Street South, Cambridge. Interment 1PM, Saturday, June 21, 2025 in the Clinton Cemetery, Clinton, MN with a lunch to follow at the Clinton Memorial Building.
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