It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of David “Swanny” Robert Swanson, a true outdoorsman and lover of life. Born on November 25, 1960, in Hudson, WI, Dave lived his life to the fullest until his passing on August 16, 2024, at Comforts of Home-The Lodge in River Falls, WI.

Dave received the gift of eternal life God offers through his son Jesus Christ at an early age and became a strong unashamed follower of God in his later years, witnessed by his family and friends.

A proud lumberjack in his youth, Dave found joy in hunting and fishing, always processing his own game and reveling in the thrill of the hunt. His prized possession was a trophy 14-point buck that he kept mounted in his family room.

Dave’s love for fishing was introduced by his dad at an early age. They spent many memorable days fishing for trout on local streams. Throughout his life, Dave savored the serenity of fishing with family and friends in Canada, on the St. Croix River, Hudson dam, Spectacle Lake and the rugged beauty of the north shore. Swanny was a scrappy football and hockey player who continued his love for sports, hunting and fishing with his close high school friends through the years. From the rolling hills of West Idaho to the sunny shores of Fort Meyers and St. Petersburg, Florida, Dave loved to explore all the beauty this world had to offer. He even ventured on two unforgettable cruises to Mexico.

Known for his love of collecting treasures and giving them away, Dave was a true pack rat with a heart of gold. He had a knack for finding hidden gems at auctions, garage sales, and even on the side of the road, always looking to share his discoveries with his loved ones.

Dave is survived by his loving wife Sandra Swanson; children Joshua Swanson, Lance (Meaghan) Fenton, Matthew (Emily) Fenton; grandchildren James, Liam, Shon, Landon, Marshall, Gwyneth; mother Carol Krear; siblings Rick (Kris) Swanson, Chris (Libby) Swanson, Carrie (Greg) Hamm; and many other nieces, nephews, great-nieces and nephews, and other family members.

Dave was preceded in death by his father Richard Swanson; infant brother Mark Swanson; step-father Marlin; and grandparents.

To honor Dave’s memory and celebrate his remarkable life, a Celebration of Life will take place at the O’Connell Family Funeral Home, 520 S 11th Street Hudson, WI on August 23, 2024, from 4:00 pm – 7:00 p.m.

Let us come together to pay tribute to a man who lived life with passion and adventure, leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter, and cherished memories that will forever hold a special place in our hearts. Dave Swanson may have left this world, but his spirit will live on in the beauty of the great outdoors and the joy he brought to all who knew him.

Memorials preferred to Alzheimer’s Disease Research

Funeral Services Entrusted to O’Connell Family Funeral Home of Hudson.