David L. Swanson

David L. Swanson died peacefully in his sleep from complications of diabetes and dementia at the Commons in Eagan, MN, on Friday, September 20th, 2019. He was 73 years old. Just two days shy of his 74th birthday. David was born on September 22, 1945 in Hastings, MN to Gordon and Pauline Swanson. He graduated from Hastings High School in 1963, and attended Mankato State University for two years until his draft number was called into the U.S. Army. He served in the Vietnam conflict and on the DMZ in Korea from 1966-1969. David returned from service to Hastings, MN, which he made his lifelong home. David married JoAnne Kruse in 1969, and together they had a daughter, Joleen. Steadfastly loyal, David worked his entire professional career in Accounting and Logistics at 3M, retiring in 2000. Anyone who knew David would be quick to point out his wit, sarcasm, and dry sense of humor. David was meticulous, dedicated, and had an ability to see value in the everyday; these were attributes that he demonstrated as an avid collector of classic toy trains, as well as postage stamps from across the world. He was also passionate about nature and enjoyed biking, walking, bird watching, fishing, and trap shooting. His love of the outdoors was highlighted by earning the highest honor of the Boy Scouts, as he earned the rank of Eagle Scout. David loved dogs and became a dog grandpa for Schultz, Sully, Ruby and Max, as he enthusiastically took on the role of the Swanson family dog sitter, often returning the dogs home spoiled and with an affinity for good steak. He continued to look forward to a good visit with the family dogs while at The Commons in Eagan. David is survived by his daughter Joleen (John) Long; grandchildren Brianna, Bridget, and Isabella Long; sister JoAnne (Bill) Bollenbeck; brothers Kevin (Sue) Swanson and John (Kate) Swanson and many nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his parents, Gordon and Pauline Swanson. A Memorial Service will be held on Friday, September 27, 2019 at 11:00 AM at Starkson Family Life Celebration Chapel, 3075 Vermillion St., Hastings. A visitation will be held one hour prior to the service at the funeral home. Interment, St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Cemetery.