Obituary: Donald Swanson

Donald Edward Swanson, 100, passed away Tuesday, September 30, 2025, at  Pinnacle Specialty Care in Cedar Falls following a stroke.  

He was born July 15, 1925, in Pine Island, Minnesota, the son of Ivan and Dena  (Bushman) Swanson. He graduated from Cedar Falls High School before serving in the  U.S. Army from 1945 to 1946. On April 28, 1945, he was united in marriage to Hazel  Southard in Belton, Texas. He worked at Rath Packing Co. for 36 years before retiring  in 1984.  

Donald had a 100th birthday celebration at his favorite restaurant, Cedar Falls  Family Restaurant, with many family and friends attending. He was honored by Post 49  AMVETS Riders who paraded past his house and individually, went up to shake his  hand!  

Donald is survived by his sons, Eldon (Vicki) Swanson of Hudson and James  (Janis) Swanson of Cedar Falls; his grandchildren: Tara Swanson, Tory (Melissa)  Swanson, Amber (Dan) Megivern, Aaron (Andrea) Olson, Felicia (Andy) Baker,  Stephanie Swanson, Carrie Swanson, Lisa (Mike) Wallace, and Brooke (Ryan) Starling;  numerous great grandchildren and great-great grandchildren, and daughter-in-law,  Mary Swanson of Independence, MO.  

He was preceded in death by his wife, Hazel; son, Craig; and siblings, Robert,  Gloria and Richard.  

A celebration of his life will be held from 9:00-11:00 a.m. Saturday, November 29  with a sharing of memories at Richardson Funeral Service in Cedar Falls. Inurnment  with military honors immediately following at Cedar Valley Memorial Gardens.  Memorials may be directed to the family.