Obituary of William Swanson

William Edwin Swanson, Jr. (Bill), age 68, passed away peacefully on May 27, 2015, at the Minneapolis VA Hospital after fighting a courageous battle for his life. He is survived by his sons Justin and Bradley, his daughter-in-law Jenny, six sisters (Gloria, Donna, Beth, Carol, Cathy, and Barbara), one brother (David), six brother-in-laws, one sister-in-law and his nephews and nieces. He was preceded in death by his parents William E. Swanson, Sr. and Cecilia (Sis) Swanson and his sister Mary Shea. Bill was an active member of the Minneapolis Boys Club and graduated from Central High School in 1965, where he was All City Center on its championship football team. After High School, Bill enlisted and served in the U.S. Navy from 1965 – 1969. His service included a tour in Vietnam as part of the Navy “Brown Water” forces. After his service, he attended St. Cloud State College graduating with a degree in Education with specialities in Industrial Arts and Special Education. He taught at the Minnesota Sheriffs Boys Ranch and at St Francis High School. Bill’s passion and dedication to his students' success changed many lives. As a Vietnam Veteran he was a member of The American Legion and was an active member of Pheasants Forever. He lived in Cambridge, MN for 40 years. A memorial service will be held for Bill on Tuesday, June 2nd from 1:00-3:00 at the Cremation Society of Minnesota, 4343 Nicollet Ave. So., Minneapolis. Private interment at MN State Veterans Cemetery, Little Falls. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Bill's name to: American Liver Foundation www.liver foundation.org National Kidney Foundation www.kidney.org