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Inga Swenson Obituary
December 29, 1932 - July 23, 2023
Survived by husband Lowell Montgomery Harris and son Mark Edward Harris (wife, Mariko Andoh) and granddaughter, Lily. Nieces and nephews: Erik, Karl, Peter, Solveig (Sally), John (Sig), Rick and Lisa. Inga was preceded in death by son James Montgomery Harris and brothers John Richard (Dick) Swenson and Dr. Edward William Swenson.
Inga was a native of Omaha and attended Central High School (1950). Inga attended Northwestern University where she met her husband, Lowell. She is regarded as one of her generation's most versatile actresses. Inga starred on stage, screen, and television. Two of her major films were "The Miracle Worker" and "Advise and Consent". In the 60's Inga received Tony nominations for her leading roles in the Broadway musicals, "110 in the Shade" and "Baker Street". Her television appearances were numerous, highlighted by the long-running series "Benson" in which she played Gretchen Kraus, the acerbic head housekeeper.
Memorial service pending.
In lieu of flowers, if desired, the family asks that memorials be directed to the Central High School Foundation - website: CHSFOmaha.org
Memories and Condolences
for Inga Swenson
Maureen Canary
March 12, 2026
I played Magnolia to her Julie many years ago for Pittsburgh Light Opera production of "Showboat." She was extraordinarily talented and I loved her dearly. A remarkable actor and singer as well as a heck of a great gal. I will never forget her. Maureen
Lauren Watson
November 19, 2024
She was such a beautiful lady. And exceptionally talented. Everything I´ve seen her in she was magnificent
Grady youngblood
December 30, 2023
Inga Swenson was an actress and singer who starred as Gretchen the cook on the sitcom "Benson."
Darlene
December 25, 2023
To the family, many, many friends, colleagues and fans of this wonderful actress and singer Ms. Inga Swenson. Ms. Inga Swenson was an actress and singer who starred as Gretchen the cook on the sitcom "Benson." We hope many of the encouraging words and thoughts on this site comforts you during this difficult time also. We enjoyed the shows to whom she brought much laughter and joy too. May you find comfort in your wealth of fond memories together with your dear loved one Ms. Inga Swenson. May Almighty God in the Heavens comfort your hearts with peace and loving kindness as you cope with this precious loss in your lives. She will be greatly missed, but not forgotten. May family, friends and extended family cherish her memories.
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Davis
August 14, 2023
To Lowell, Mark, Lily, and All Family,
We send heartfelt condolences and sympathy to you. Ms. Swenson will surely be missed by all who loved her. May your treasured good memories provide comfort for you always. She accomplished much as a singer and actress with numerous Tony awards and Emmy nominations. Thank you, Mr. Swenson, for sharing your many skills and talents with us.
May you find comfort in knowing that warm thoughts and sympathy are with you. Wishing your family peace, comfort, and loving memories to forever hold in your hearts and hands. May God continue to comfort you. -23rd Psalm
shari
August 12, 2023
i had no idea she was from Omaha, please accept my condolences and know that she brought great joy to so many people through her career
Lisa Weiner
August 6, 2023
To Inga Swenson,
You were a very talented actress. You did a great job playing Gretchen Krauss on the sitcom Benson. You made me laugh. My prayers go to your family and friends. Lisa Weiner
P L Obrien
August 6, 2023
I offer my condolences to your family. It was with pride could tell people you were from Omaha.
"Gretchen" was my all-time favorite character from any sitcom. She was a talented actor and should have had more acclaim for her talent.
Mary Buglewicz Duffy
August 6, 2023
She was such a great actress. She was awesome in "Benson."
Janyce Dawson
August 6, 2023
I recognized her from the picture and remember her from the TV show "Benson." She was a very talented actress. My condolences to the family.
Scott Espinoza
August 2, 2023
I remember Inga Swenson on Benson's, she was a great actress, she will be missed deeply. May she you rest in peace until her next life.
Condolences to her family and friends
RR
August 1, 2023
A talented actress, she was great on Benson, her character will always be remembered. Sincere condolences to the Swenson family, may God be with you all as you go through your time of loss, sorry for your loss.
Becky Knight
August 1, 2023
To the Harris family - I am so sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you at this time. I was just a fan of hers and so, whenever I see Benson, she always makes me smile and laugh. Her delivery, comic timing and chemistry with the rest of the cast is by far the most favorite part of that series for me. (Gretchen is my favorite character on that show.)
To Mrs. Swenson - Thank you so much for all the entertainment you gave us throughout the years. From acting in plays, to Soap, to Benson, to movies (I still love North and South to this day) to singing, you put your heart into every single thing you worked on. You made whatever you did your own and for that, us fans will forever remember you. Rest easy Mrs. Swenson. Your life's work is over but now is time for your rest.
Matt
July 31, 2023
I send my deepest condolences to the family of such a talented actress.
Michael Reed
July 31, 2023
Hello. I enjoy her role on Benson and the miniseries, North and South. Have faith in God.
faith/brad tobin/herscot
July 31, 2023
Dear Swenson Family Brad and I would like to take this time to extend our condolences's to the family.she'll surely be missed very much and may she rest in peace.best faith/brad
Teresa Gates
July 31, 2023
Oh my goodness, did you & Benson, make me laugh.
God protect & keep you, Ms. Swenson. Rest in Peace.
Diana
July 31, 2023
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
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