Doug Swanson

Douglas Ray Swanson, 75, of Gothenburg, Nebraska, passed away at his home on April 12, 2025.
Doug was born June 17, 1949, in Gothenburg, Nebraska, to Stanley and Frieda (Franzen) Swanson. He attended Gothenburg Public Schools, graduating with the Class of 1967. Track was a favorite sport of his in high school. In 1970, Doug enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1970, where he served as an SP5. He received the National Defense Service Medal and was recognized as a sharpshooter M/16 and expert with the M-14 rifle.
After his service, Doug pursued his love for the cowboy way of life by attending bull riding school. He had a lifelong passion for horses, roping, rodeo, and all things cowboy. On November 28, 1995 he married Regis Heisler in Lexington, Nebraska. Doug and Regis bought a piece of ground west of Gothenburg, where they opened their arena to local ropers on Sunday afternoons for team roping and fellowship. Doug was always willing to help others learn the skill of roping and shared his love for the sport with many.
His dogs, Boomer and Pepper, were special companions to him and held a treasured place in his life.
Doug worked at Farmland Service for 20 years and later served the City of Gothenburg for many years. He was known for his friendly nature and loved to visit with people wherever he went.
Doug is survived by his brother, Keith (Jackie) Swanson, sister, JoAnn (Greg) Allen, son, Kent Heisler (Stacia Darling), daughter, Deanne Morton, grandchildren, Klay Heisler and Kynley Heisler, Brooke (Joey) Sheets, Bailey Morton, great-grandchildren Braxten and Burkley Sheets and many other family members and friends.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Regis, his parents, Stanley and Frieda, and his brother, Kent.
Memorial Services will be held, 2:00 PM, Friday, July 11, 2025 at Fort McPherson National Cemetery.
Memorials may be directed to the Gothenburg Volunteer Fire Department. To plant a beautiful memorial tree in memory of Doug Swanson, please visit our Tree Store.