Obituaries

Kevin Robert Swanson

July 11, 1973 - March 12, 2023

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Obituary For Kevin Robert Swanson

Baraboo- Kevin Robert Swanson, age 49, passed away on Sunday, March 12, 2023. He was born on July 11, 1973, to Robert and Kathleen (Henney) Swanson in St. Paul, Minnesota.

To know Kevin was to be blessed. Always an optimist, Kevin could find the good in any situation. His drive and desire to help people led him to several first responder roles and his passion for that work was undeniable. He wore many hats including EMS, police, and private security. He worked endlessly for his communities; however, his work is not what defined him. He may have worked to help strangers in need, but he lived for his family. His boys were the light of his life and have always made him so proud. He cherished the time he spent with them and surrounded them with love, patience, and gentle guidance. His bond with family was at the core of who he was. Kevin would always come to a family member’s rescue during times of need and his family would do the same for him.

Kevin was a light in the dark for many people. He lived in service and found his purpose in helping people when they needed it the most. Kevin’s journey is proof that even the strong have struggles. Even the rescuers need rescuing.

We all need help. There is always a path forward. Please don’t struggle alone.

Kevin is survived by his children, Reese, Nolan Swanson; mother, Kathleen Swanson; siblings, Matt (Brenda) Swanson, Jamie (Mark) Bjorklund; former wife, Jennifer (Scheeler) Swanson and many beloved nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends.

He is preceded in death by his father, Robert, and son, Riley.

A Mass of Christian burial will be held at 11:00 AM on Wednesday, March 22, 2023, at St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church, 602 Everglade Drive, Madison, WI. Visitation will be held from 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM on Tuesday, March 21, 2023, at Ryan Funeral Home, 220 Enterprise Drive, Verona, WI and then again at church from 10:00 AM until time of service at church.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Kevin Swanson Memorial Fund at Associated Bank to support the care and ongoing education of his cherished boys.

To view and sign this guestbook, please visit: www.ryanfuneralservice.com.

Ryan Funeral Home & Cremation Services Verona Chapel 220 Enterprise Drive 608-845-6625

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Services

21 Mar

Visitation

03:00 PM - 07:00 PM

Ryan Funeral Homes – Verona 220 S. Enterprise Drive Verona, WI 53593 Get Directions »
22 Mar

Visitation

10:00 AM - 11:00 AM

St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church 602 Everglade Drive Madison, Wi 53717 Get Directions »
22 Mar

Mass of Christian Burial

11:00 AM - 11:45 AM

St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church 602 Everglade Drive Madison, Wi 53717 Get Directions »
by Obituary Assistant

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Condolences

  • October 31, 2023

    Kevin was a joy to work with, I helped him in the plumbing wholesale business, Rip Kevin

  • March 23, 2023

    Dear Kathy, Jamie and Matt, although I did not know Kevin personally, I know very well the love that is profoundly deep and pure in your family! Our prayers are with you always, Eileen and Gary

  • March 23, 2023

  • March 22, 2023

    My sincere condolences and continued prayers. I've always loved your family and Matt, you are my HN brother forever. Keep hope alive! -Eric Fleming, Holy Name Class of '96

  • March 19, 2023

    I grew up next to the Swansons and Kevin and I and Jaimie and Matt always had such excellent times together. From my early babysitting days for them to endless weekends playing flashlight tag and Bob and Kathy having all us neighborhood kids over for summer outdoor movie nights.... Kevin and I went deer hunting together several times at Arrowhead lodge years ago. Many great and lasting memories my friend. My dear Mother also frequently commented on how polite, helpful, and friendly all the Swanson kids were. Kathy, Jaimie, and Matt, I'm so sad for you. Know this, Kevin will always be alive in your hearts and minds. I truly miss you all and our memories and good times together-never forget. Always..... Michael Saltz

  • March 18, 2023

    Kevin, You were such a good man. We would sit in your office and talk for hours about life, mental health, and anything that came to our minds. Not many people in this world are as good as you were. Thank you for always being supportive and being a friend/ear when I needed one. In my mind your living it up in Alaska.

  • March 17, 2023

    You comforted me while I was going through a tough patch in my life. I appreciate your smile working at St Mary's Credit Union. Kathy C.

  • March 16, 2023

    Kevin, I will always remember how kind and supportive you were with everyone. I will miss you! Jean B.

  • March 16, 2023

    Dearest Kathy, Jamie, Matt and family: You are in our thoughts and prayers. Kevin was a very fine and loving man that created a legacy of service and dedication. We mourn his passing. May you feel the love of family, friends and our Heavenly Father in the days ahead. Love, Jim and Jan

  • March 16, 2023

    To know a Swanson is a gift in and of itself. They are the embodiment of family and strong values. My heart breaks knowing there is one less on this earth to admire.

  • March 16, 2023

    Remember working with him as part of Delton Ambulance Service...such a sweet guy who'd do anything for anyone

  • March 16, 2023

    We worked together a few times at the PD. He always made me laugh and forget my stress. Great Cop, great man! 10-42, until Valhalla my brother!

  • March 16, 2023

    Stony, I will truly miss you for many reasons. The best time was teasing each other in the woods while trying to harvest a white tail deer. Good old "crooked" shooter! Miss you, Todd E.

  • March 16, 2023

Tributes

  • Cherished Friend Bouquet

    Jamie Wepking sent Cherished Friend Bouquet for Kevin Robert Swanson - March 21, 2023

    My sincerest condolences for you at this time. . Wishing you peace, comfort, courage, and lots of love at this time of sorrow.

  • 5 TREES

    Amber Knowles planted 5 trees in memory of Kevin Robert Swanson . - March 16, 2023

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what our families say

Tiffany Foster went out of her way to fulfill all my requests, talked me through problems I was facing, and tried to make me feel as comfortable as possible when I was a wreck, totally crushed, and I thank her with all of my heart for that.

James S. | July 2020

The professional manner of the staff made a difficult time a little easier.

Lynda R. | July 2020

Services provided for both parents were perfect, on time, and no issues. Brenda is awesome and strong!

Michael M. | July 2020

Skyler was absolutely amazing. She was so caring and helpful through this whole process. She even went above and beyond to meet with us in DeForest and even to make a stop at our home to drop off or pick up anything needed. While it was a small gesture, it was so helpful and greatly appreciated.

Brooke S. | Dec. 2020

Madison North East

2418 N. Sherman Avenue
Madison, WI 53704
Tel: 608-249-8257

Madison West

5701 Odana Road
Madison, WI 53719
Tel: 608-274-1000

Verona

220 S. Enterprise Drive
Verona, WI 53593
Tel: 608-845-6625

DeForest / Windsor

6924 Lake Road
DeForest, WI 53532
Tel: 608-846-4250