Frances E. Swanson

ROCKFORD - Frances Elizabeth Swanson, 94, of Rockford died peacefully with her family at her side on Tuesday, July 30, 2013, at Alpine Fireside Nursing Center. Born October 19, 1918, in Rockford; the daughter of Robert and Astrid (Wass) Larson. Graduated from Central High, class of 1935, and worked in the office of Sundstrand Machine Tool Co. for nine years. Married John H. Swanson in Rockford at Tabor Lutheran Church on September 12, 1942, and he preceded her 24 years ago on July 30, 1989. Frances lived most of her life in Rockford except for ten years, 1970 - 1979, when she and John lived in Reston, Virginia. She and John returned to Rockford and were both avid and faithful members of Salem Lutheran Church. Survivors include her two sons, John R. (Marilyn) Swanson of Coal Valley and Brent (Nancy) Swanson of Roscoe; daughter, Kay (Steven) Schwandt of Rockford; grandsons, Dr. John A. (Heather) Swanson, Adam Swanson and Derek (Jennifer) Schwandt; granddaughter, Lynne Schwandt; great-grandchildren, Taylor, Chase Schwandt, Joey and Jacob Githens and Cole, Kara and Kacie Swanson; brother, Leif (Carleen) Larson of Elk Grove, WI; sister-in-law, Carla Larson of Waverly, IA; and many nieces and nephews. Preceded in death by her parents; husband; grandson, Bradley Swanson; and brother, Dr. C. Robert Larson. Funeral service at 11 a.m. Monday, August 5, 2013, at 11 a.m. at Salem Lutheran Church, 1629 S. 6th St., with Pastor Bill Dahlberg officiating. Visitation from 4 to 6 p.m. Sunday, August 4, at Fitzgerald Funeral Home, Mulford Chapel, 1860 S. Mulford Rd., and continues on Monday at church from 10 a.m. until time of service. Interment will be held at 2:30 p.m. at Arlington Memorial Park, Rockford. In lieu of flowers, make memorials in her name to Salem Lutheran Church or a charity of your choice