Charles Donald Swanson

Charles Donald Swanson, 80, of Boxholm passed away at his home Monday, August 19, 2024.

He was born March 9, 1944 in Boone, Iowa, the son of Reuben and E. Kathryn (Hammarstedt) Swanson. He married Linda R. Olson on May 15, 1971 at United Methodist Church in Odebolt, Iowa. 

Charles graduated with the Grand Community High School class of 1962. He continued his education at Iowa State University where he received his Bachelor’s Degree in Ag Business in 1967. After graduating, Charles honorably and humbly served his country in the Vietnam War. He was a recipient of the Bronze Star Medal for “meritorious service in ground operations against hostile forces in Vietnam.” After returning home, Charles worked more than 20 years at the Farmer’s Cooperative Elevator in Boxholm and then with the Boone County Secondary Roads Department.

Charles enjoyed spending time visiting with family and friends. He was rarely short on words and had the ability to start a conversation and have a cup of coffee with just about anyone. He was a life-long member of Trinity Lutheran Church in Boxholm, serving on the board and volunteering his time and talents when able. Charles enjoyed watching sports and supporting the Iowa State Cyclones. He spent many hours outside mowing, managing the Stark Farm, walking his dogs, farming with the Larson family, and attending Karl King band concerts in Fort Dodge. He also loved riding his motorcycle with his wife until she was no longer able. Charles was a devoted husband to Linda and was faithfully by her side throughout her battle with cancer.

After Linda’s passing, Charles kept busy helping others, especially providing rides to anyone who needed to go anywhere. Charles was very proud of his grandkids and loved spending time with them. He took countless trips to Nebraska and Illinois attending birthday parties, ballgames, dance recitals, concerts, school activities, and other celebrations and events. 

Survivors include sons Erik C. Swanson, wife Tara and children Luke and Noah of Omaha, Nebraska and Paul W. Swanson, wife Emily and children Aaron, Presley, Chandler and McCaila of Godfrey, Illinois; sister-in-law Jolene Swanson of Ogden, Iowa; sister-in-law Bertie Hartjes of Center Point, Iowa; sister-in-law Betty Sullivan and her husband James of Ft. Dodge, Iowa, and nieces and nephews Stephen, Stefanie, Kellie, Daniel, Sheila, Shelly, and Sue. He was preceded in death by his wife Linda; parents, sister in infancy Carol Joy Swanson; brothers, Paul D. Swanson and John W. Swanson.

Funeral services for Charles will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, August 24, 2024 at Trinity Lutheran Church in Boxholm with Rev. Rod Meyer officiating. Burial will follow at Lawn Cemetery in rural Boxholm, with graveside military rites conducted by the Boone Veterans Council. A visitation will be held from 5-7 p.m. on Friday, August 23, 2024 at Carson-Stapp Funeral Home in Ogden.

 Memorials may be left to the discretion of the family.