Richard Raymond Swenson

Richard Swenson, known to all as Rick, passed away on March 7 at the age of 77 in Eagan after a courageous battle with cancer.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Raymond and Patricia, his brother Jimmy, sisters Mary and Theresa, nephew Matt Ludwig, and niece Kelly Severson. Rick is survived by his wife of 55 years, Janet; son Mark (Traci) Swenson; daughter Megan (Matt) Anderson; granddaughter Grace Swenson; sister Kathy (Bruce) Lindeman; brother Daryl (Rosie) Swenson; sisters Patty (Mike) Ludwig and Ellie Swenson; honorary sister Colleen Woodley; sister-in-law Joan (Pat) Crowley; and many nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews. He also leaves behind his beloved granddogs, Chloe and Louie.

A graduate of Cretin High School who attended the University of Minnesota, Rick spent his career with Mark VII Distribution until his retirement. He cherished his many friendships, especially with “the boys,” his fellow Mark VII retirees, his longtime walking buddy Tom Griswold, and his cousins and fellow Mendota residents. An avid golfer, he loved spending time on the course with his buddies, siblings, brothers-in-law, and his children Mark, Megan, and Matt.

Rick’s warm smile and quick sense of humor defined him. He greeted everyone with kindness and a joke, even his doctors, nurses, and care team during his illness. To know Rick was to love him, and he will be deeply missed by all who were fortunate enough to share in his life.