Curtis
Swanson, 71
Thief River Falls - Curtis Swanson, 71, died Monday, April 17, 2000 at his home in North township of Pennington county.
Funeral services were held at 10 a.m. on Thursday, April 20, at Redeemer Lutheran Church in Thief River Falls with Rev. Marcia Sylvester officiating. Joyce Halbasch was the organist, and the soloist was Steve Sorvig. Casketbearers were David Almquist, Clyde Christensen, John Sannes, Kyle Mehrkens, Leonard Mehrkens and Wade Joppru. Honorary casketbearers were Rudy Rude, Duane Vatsaas, Bruce Russell, John Erickson, Donald Joppru and Kenneth Mehrkens. Burial will be in Greenwood Cemetery in Thief River Falls. The Green Funeral Home was in charge of the arrangements.
Curtis James Swanson was born on May 5, 1928 in Thief River Falls, the son of Edwin L. and Mabel (Shefveland) Swanson. He was baptized and confirmed in the Christian faith and attended school in Thief River Falls, graduating from Lincoln High School in 1946. He farmed in North township with his dad.
On June 12, 1949, Curtis was united in marriage to Clara Mae Jorde in Thief River Falls. The couple continued to live and farm in North township and in 1989, were honored as Pennington County Conservation Farmers of the Year.
Curtis was a member of Redeemer Lutheran Church, serving on its council. He also served as a volunteer in many organizations and committees, including treasurer of North township.
He enjoyed driving, photography and working on old tractors. He also enjoyed visiting the Colorado Rockies, observing the wildlife in the mountains.
Curtis is survived by one daughter, Dawn (Gary) Berard of Thief River Falls; one son, Wes (Shelly) Swanson of Estes Park, CO; five grandchildren; one great-grandchild.; special friend and companion, Arlene Cook; one sister, Senora (Basil) Almquist of Cummings, ND; and many nieces, nephews and cousins.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Clara Mae, on May 7, 1990 and his parents. A00003B2000AP26