Richard Leonard Swenson

Richard L. Swenson, age 81, of Burnsville, Minnesota, passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family after a short battle with leukemia.

Richard was born on July 11, 1944, in Chicago, Illinois, to Ernest and Mabel (Wedell) Swenson. At the age of two, his family moved to Minneapolis, where he spent his childhood and graduated from Roosevelt High School. He was a natural athlete, proudly serving as captain of the football, hockey, and baseball teams. Following high school, he attended the University of Minnesota, where he earned his bachelor’s degree in business.

After college, Richard served his country in the U.S. Army, where he was honorably discharged as a First Lieutenant. During his college years, he met the love of his life, Gloria Anderson, while dancing at a friend's house. The two married in 1967 and shared 58 wonderful years together. They raised two daughters, Lisa and Sara, and built a life filled with love, laughter, and adventure.

Richard worked as a buyer for the State of Minnesota for much of his career and also spent time at Unisys, where he formed many lasting friendships. He had an active lifestyle and a zest for life, enjoying golf, alpine skiing, tennis, biking, hiking, swimming, racquetball, and traveling. He was a regular at Lifetime Fitness, often there five or six days a week, and was known for his friendly chit-chat with fellow members.

Faith was an important part of Richard’s life. He was a dedicated member of Hosanna Church in Lakeville and found great joy and purpose through his faith community. Above all, he loved his family deeply. He cherished every opportunity to spend time with his daughters and grandchildren. When his daughters were young, he taught them how to ski, skate, and enjoy the outdoors. Richard and Gloria loved traveling together, exploring new places, and sharing their love for music, especially jazz and holiday concerts.

Richard’s personality could range from cheerful to grumpy, but his heart was steadfast, always thinking of his family, providing for them, and ensuring they were cared for. His face would light up whenever his grandchildren were near, and even in his final days, his thoughts were of his loved ones.

He is survived by his devoted wife of 58 years, Gloria; daughters Lisa (Richard) Jungwirth and Sara (James) Schmidt; grandchildren Linnea, Aaron, Riley, Madeline, and Mackenzie; sister Jerilyn Swenson; nieces, a nephew, and many other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Ernest and Mabel, and his brother, Mark Swenson.

A funeral service will take place on Thursday, November 6, at 11:00 a.m. at Hosanna Church, 9600 163rd Street West, Lakeville, Minnesota. A visitation will be held prior to the service from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. A reception will follow, and burial at Fort Snelling National Cemetery will take place at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, Minnesota Chapter.

Arrangements are being handled by Starkson Family Life Celebration Anderson Chapel.