Vernon Albin Swanson

Vernon Swanson, age 82, of Russell, Minnesota, died on Tuesday, December 2, 2025, at the Avera Dougherty Hospice House in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. Funeral Services are 11:00 a.m. Saturday, December 6, 2025, at Grace First Parish in Russell, Minnesota. Interment will be at the Russell Cemetery, followed by luncheon at the Russell Community Center. Visitation will be held one hour prior to his celebration, from 10:00 – 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, also at the church.

Vernon Albin Swanson was born on January 25, 1943, in Russell, Minnesota. He was the son of Albin and Sophie Swanson. Vernon grew up on the family farm near Russell and was baptized as an infant and confirmed in his youth at Grace Lutheran Church in Russell. He attended school in Russell before continuing to help his family on the farm.

On September 26, 1964, Vernon was united in marriage to Leigh Schuchard in Elkton, South Dakota. After meeting the love of his life at a local football game, the couple spent 56 years of marriage together prior to her death in 2019. They made their home on a hobby farm just outside Russell where they raised three children.

Vernon was proud of his hobby farm where he raised horses and later sheep. He drove truck for 30 years at Schwan's. After retirement from Schwan’s, he worked as head custodian and continued as a bus driver for the Russell School.

Vernon's interests in life included competing in horse shows, hunting, fishing, time spent at their cabin in Spicer, visiting garage sales to find collectibles and items to refurbish with Leigh, playing with his dog Bella, and spending time with family. Vernon also enjoyed going to the casino to play video lottery games.

Vernon Swanson died on December 2, 2025, in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. He reached the age of 82 years, 10 months, and 7 days. Blessed be his memory.

He is survived by his 3 children, Tara (and TJ) Law of Brandon, SD, Russ (and Nancy) Swanson of Aberdeen, SD, Troy Swanson of Harrisburg, SD; 4 grandchildren, Tasha Swanson, Teya (and Devin) Berndt, Rex Swanson, Trinity Law; 7 great-grandchildren, Briley, Ella, Sophie, Derek, Blayke, Iris, Bowman; sister, Judy Swanson of Balaton; beloved dog, Bella; nieces, nephews, other relatives and many friends.

Vernon was preceded in death by his parents, Albin and Sophie Swanson; wife, Leigh Swanson; and a sister in infancy, Eyvone Swanson.