Janet Swenson

Janet Yvonne Swenson, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, peacefully passed away on Monday, January 8, 2024, at the age of 85. Born on April 11, 1938, in Stillwater, MN, Janet brought joy and laughter to all who knew her. She will be fondly remembered for her caring nature, her adventurous spirit, and her unwavering love for her family.

Janet graduated from Forest Lake High School, Class of 1956, she went on to pursue a nursing certificate taking courses at Bethesda Hospital. As a nurse, she made a difference in the lives of countless patients as she worked at Bethesda, the VA Hospital in Minneapolis, and Chisago Lakes Hospital. Her empathy and compassion were unmatched, and she was admired by her colleagues and patients alike.

 On June 18, 1960, Janet married the love of her life, Bruce Swenson. Their love story began in childhood, and they built a beautiful home together in Scandia, Minnesota, nestled by the serene Goose Lake. Janet's proudest role was that of a mother, and she poured her heart and soul into raising her children and creating a loving home. Her infectious laughter, playful spirit, and genuine love enriched the lives of her children and their friends. Janet cherished every moment she spent with her family.

Janet and Bruce were inseparable partners throughout their 63-year marriage. They embarked on numerous business ventures together, including owning a hardware store, dairy farming, contracting, trucking, recycling, paper delivery routes, and operating the esteemed Swenson Superette and catering business. Janet happily embraced each endeavor, supporting her husband and immersing herself in the joys and challenges of their shared ventures. Together, they built a life filled with love, laughter, and cherished memories, including traveling across all of the 50 states, including Alaska and Hawaii, all Canadian providences except Yukon, New Zealand, Australia, Japan, and most of Europe.

When Janet wasn't working or caring for her family, she actively contributed to her community. She dedicated her time and talents as an active member of the Scandia Marine Lions Club, Elim Lutheran Church, and her Yo-yo Club. Janet's philanthropic spirit and commitment to charity endeared her to those around her.

Janet is survived by her loving husband, Bruce; her children, Kent (Jeannine) Swenson, Neil (Diana) Swenson, Scott (Michelle Filkins) Swenson, and Julie (Matthew) Geiger. She also leaves behind eleven adored grandchildren, Holly (Alfred) Nkemla Lienou, Michael (Kierstin) Swenson, Tanae (Justin) Christophersen, Tal (Hailey) Swenson, Cole Peterson, BaiLeigh Swenson, Hannah Swenson, Cindy Swenson, Jade (Cameron Anderson) Geiger, Mya Geiger, Grant Geiger and eight great-grandchildren, Freya and Odin Nkemla Lienou, Elliott and Caden Swenson, Ollie Christophersen, Juno Janet Swenson, Raelyn and Kaedence Peterson who were her pride and joy. Janet will be dearly missed by her family, other relatives, and lifelong friends.

In honor of Janet's remarkable life, a memorial service will be held on Friday, January 19, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. at Elim Lutheran Church, located at 20971 Olinda Trail North in Scandia. Prior to the service, a gathering of family and friends will be held on Thursday from 5:00-7:00 p.m. at Mattson Funeral Home, located at 343 North Shore Drive in Forest Lake. Additionally, there will be a one-hour gathering at the church before the service on Friday. Interment will take place in the spring at Elim Lutheran Cemetery.

Janet's unwavering love, zest for life, and kind spirit will be forever cherished and remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing her. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial donations be made to the Elim Lutheran Church Kitchen Fund.

As we gather to celebrate Janet's life, let us remember all the beautiful memories she left us and find solace in the knowledge that her legacy will continue to inspire us. Let us raise a glass to a life well-lived and bid farewell to our dear Janet, knowing that she will forever reside in our hearts.