James Victor Swanson

James Victor Swanson, a devoted partner, father, and loving brother, passed away on October 12, 2025, one week after celebrating his 80th birthday.
Jim was born on October 5, 1945, in Kansas City, Missouri. Raised in Western Springs, Jim graduated from Lyons Township High School, and attended the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, where he proudly participated in the Reserve Officers' Training Corps (ROTC).
Throughout his career in the casualty insurance industry, James built a reputation as a trusted professional whose judgment and expertise earned him respect from colleagues at every level. His work underwriting policies at CNA Insurance led to multiple promotions and gave him the opportunity to evaluate high-risk policies for major Hollywood productions.
Jim pursued a rich array of personal interests. A licensed private pilot, he often shared stories from his time in the air. One favorite involved navigating by water towers to find the runway and land safely. He became an expert on Civil War history and enjoyed cinema, particularly westerns such as Shane, along with musicals, silent films, and movies with social or historical themes. He took great pride and joy in his collection of movie soundtracks from the 1960s and 1970s.
A true dog lover, James delighted in exploring parks and nature trails with his canine companions. Casey and Mattie were especially dear to him, remaining faithful friends who rarely left his side.
Jim was preceded in death by his parents, John Victor Swanson and Betty Jane Swanson; his beloved partner, Lin Stortz; and his son, Steven Swanson.
He is survived by his children, Brian Swanson and son-in-law Jason Asumi Kanazawa, Jennifer Swanson, and Tracy Wiley. He is also survived by his sister, Holly Anne Swanson Miglio, widow of James Paul Miglio, of Houston, Texas; Karen Carlson Swanson, ex-wife and mother of his children; and many extended family members and cherished friends.
Visitation and funeral services will take place at Dunn Family Funeral Home, 1801 South Douglas Road, Oswego, IL 60543. Visitation begins Saturday, October 25, at 1:00 PM, with services following at 3:00 PM. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the ASPCA at www.aspca.org in his memory.
Jim's legacy lives on in the passions he nurtured, the stories he told, and the love he gave to those who knew him best.
For information: 630/554-3888 or www.dunnfamilyfuneralhome.com