Melvin Eugene Swanson of Crosslake passed away July 29, 2008, at Woodland Good Samaritan Care Center in Brainerd. He was born Sept. 12, 1921, in Denmark Township, MN, to Enoch and Ida (Christenson) Swanson and grew up on the family farm near Afton, MN, with his sister, Marion, who was also born on Sept. 12, but one year earlier in 1920. The family farm has become quite well known in more recent years as the land is now part of the Afton Alps Ski Resort as well as a State Park.
Melvin went to country school in Denmark Township and was confirmed at the Swedish Lutheran Church (now Memorial) in Afton. He graduated from Hastings High School and went on to also graduate from Dunwoody Institute in Minneapolis. He married Irene Donath in May of 1942. Melvin and Irene had two sons, Dennis and Darrell.
Melvin was employed by IBM for 43 years, retiring to Crosslake in 1983. He served in the U.S. Army from 1944 to 1946. Melvin was active in the Crosslake/Fifty Lakes American Legion Post and a member of the Color Guard.
Melvin was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He and Irene were able to share 60 years of marriage. During their retirement years they served in many of the ministries of Crosslake Lutheran. They were also active in the Historical Society, the Game and Fish Club as well as square dancing.
Melvin was preceded in death by his wife, Irene in 2002; his parents, and a sister, Marion. He is survived by sons, Dennis and his wife, Peggy, and Darrell and his wife, Susan; five grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; and special friend, Johanna Wille.
May Melvin Eugene Swanson rest in peace and may we all be comforted by the full knowledge that through the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, Melvin will have eternal life.
Please visit www.brenny.com to leave a message of comfort and support to Melvin's family.
Arrangements are entrusted to the Brenny Funeral Home of Crosslake.
