Obituary

John "Jack" Swanson 1929—2021

John "Jack" Swanson, 91, of Rockford, passed away on Tuesday, October 19, 2021 in his home, surrounded by family. Born December 13, 1929, in Rockford, IL., the son of Walter and Lillian (Anderson) Swanson. A lifelong Rockford resident, Jack married Kathleen M. Johnson on June 27, 1953. They were happily married for 61 years. More than anything, Jack loved spending time with his family. He never missed his grandchildren's events, whether it was a ballgame or a dance recital. From his weekly breakfasts with his brother to dinners with his children and grandchildren, he kept himself busy enjoying the company of all those he loved the most. Jack was a veteran of the Korean War, serving overseas from 1951 to 1953. After returning, he spent most of his working career in the floor coverings business. He was the founder and owner of Swanson Floor Coverings until his retirement. When not working or with his family, the most likely place you could find Jack was on the golf course. Jack was a member of the Rockford East High School golf team that won two state championships in 1945 and 1947. He would play friendly matches with friends and family alike and he would never turn down an opportunity to play a round. He was a member of Forest Hills Country Club for nearly sixty years where he made many cherished friends on and off the course. Jack was also a faithful member of Bethesda Covenant Church for over 80 years. His family and friends will remember him for the way he lived his life and the way he treated all those that he was around. It would be hard to find a better dad, grandpa, dinner guest, playing partner, or role model than Jack Swanson. Very few people are lucky enough to have parents or grandparents as supportive and loving as Jack and Katie. While that makes times like this even tougher, the memories and lessons that they provided are irreplaceable and treasured by their family. Jack's family would like to give special thanks to both his brother Gene and his niece Paula Rasanen for their help and support during these times. Jack is survived by his children, Janice (Louis) Bufalo, Bruce (Sally) Swanson, and Karl (Jill) Swanson; brother, Eugene Swanson; sister-in-law, G.G. Johnson; Grandchildren, Erica (Scott) Krowczyk, Kayla (Lucas) Swatzell, and Cori, Robert, Hannah and Troy Swanson. Step-granddaughter, Alexa (Clement) Howell. Great-grandchildren Brynn and Kendall Krowczyk, and Everly, George and Lola Swatzell. Step-great- grandchildren Jamari and Onica Howell; and several nieces and nephews. Predeceased by his parents; wife, Katie Swanson; sister-in-law, Joan Swanson; brother-in-law, William R Johnson; and step-grandson Blake Bufalo in 2019.

At Jack's request, services will be private with burial to take place at Scandinavian Cemetery. The family prefers memorials be made to Bethesda Covenant Church, 2101 E State St., Rockford IL, 61104. To share a memory or condolence, visit olsonfh.com