Eugene S. "Gene" Swanson

Eugene "Gene" Sherman Swanson, a lifelong resident of Rockford, Illinois whose steady faith, devotion to family, and deep love for his community shaped nearly a century of life, passed away peacefully at the age of 99 on March 2nd, 2026.

Born in 1926 in Rockford, he spent virtually his entire life in the city he loved. After graduating from East High School in 1944, he enlisted in the United States Navy, a decision he often said shaped the course of his life and for which he remained deeply grateful. During World War II, he trained to become a Navy pilot while stationed in Dubuque, Iowa, and later served during the Korean War at the Naval Shipyard in Philadelphia.

Through the GI Bill, he attended the University of Wisconsin, earning a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering, and later received a master's degree in mechanical engineering from Drexel University. Though his service and education briefly carried him far from home, Rockford always remained at the center of his life, and it was there he returned to build the life that defined him.

His lifelong connection to Bethesda Covenant Church began in childhood. When Gene was five years old, a neighbor asked if Gene could walk with her son to Sunday School so her son would have a companion along the way. That neighborly kindness began a relationship that lasted the rest of his life. Bethesda Covenant became not only his church but his spiritual home where his faith grew quietly and consistently for more than nine decades.

His love for his church was surpassed only by his devotion to his late wife, Joan and to his family. Together they built a life grounded in faith, loyalty, and care for others.

Gene shared an especially close bond with his younger brother, Jack, his best friend and lifelong companion in both laughter and routine, whose loss a few years ago he felt deeply. The two played golf together with many friends at Forest Hills Country Club for more than 60 years, a tradition that reflected Gene's deep appreciation for friendship and continuity. Family meant everything to him, and he treasured the lifelong bonds he shared with his aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews, and especially his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

He was, above all, a man of consistency. He believed in showing up, staying faithful, and living simply. For 56 years he lived in the same home, surrounded by neighbors who became dear friends and travel companions as they explored the world together. He cherished familiar places, lasting relationships, and the small daily routines that gave life its meaning.

His guiding belief was uncomplicated but profound. As a Christian, he often said that life came down to two principles: love your neighbor and do unto others as you would have them do unto you. He believed sincerely that if people lived by those two rules, the world would be a far better place; and he tried to live them every day.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Joan (Sjostrom) Swanson; his sons, Dennis and John; his parents, Lillian (Anderson) Swanson and Walter F. Swanson; his brother Jack Swanson and sister-in-law Katie Swanson, and his sister-in-law Nancy Miller.

He is survived by his daughter, Paula Rasanen (Dick); his son, Erik Swanson (Cate); his daughter-in-law, Anne; his brother-in-law Gale Miller; his grandchildren, Ben (Laura) Rasanen, Jenna (Mark) Woestman, Krista (Jesse) Starr, Margaret (Melanie) Swanson, Calvin (Hollis) Swanson, Cooper (Madison) Swanson, and Brandon (Chelsey) Swanson; eight great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.

Those who knew him will remember a man who did not seek attention but gave stability to those around him; a steady presence, a faithful husband, a devoted father and grandfather, and a neighbor who believed kindness was not complicated.

His life was a reminder that greatness is often quiet: found in faith kept, promises honored, and love shown consistently over time.

The family is deeply grateful to the caregivers at Rockford's Heartland Hospice and The Grand Victorian for their kindness, comfort, and devoted care. In his own words, "They sure are taking good care of me here." A special thanks to family friend and caregiver Claudia Anderson for her steadfast care throughout the years.

Celebration of Life will be held at a later date at Bethesda Covenant Church, 2101 E. State St., Rockford. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you honor Gene's memory by sharing an act of kindness with someone who needs it. Donations to Heartland Hospice of Rockford, 6000 E. State St. Suite 100, Rockford, IL 61108 or Bethesda Covenant Church are also appreciated.