Elmer Swenson

Elmer Albert Swenson was born on September 21, 1919 in Hegbert Township in Swift County, Minnesota to Emil and Annie (Glimsdahl) Swenson. He grew up and received his schooling in Hegbert Township and he was baptized and confirmed at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Drywood. In September of 1941, Elmer joined the Army where he served in both the Pacific and European Theaters. While he was in the service, he fought in the Battle of the Bulge and served in Patton's 3rd Army in Germany. On July 22, 1944, he was united in marriage to Genevieve M. Robertson his beloved wife of 63 years. In September of 1946, Elmer was honorably discharged from the Army and returned home to Morris, Minnesota where he and Genevieve lived until 1952. While in Morris, Elmer worked at various jobs including the National Tea Grocery and started his career with the Farmers Union Co-op. During that time they had three children, Gary, Vicki and Steve. Elmer and his family moved to Starbuck when he became the manager of the Starbuck Co-op where he worked for 32 years until his retirement in 1984. He continued to live in Starbuck and be an active member of the community until the time of his death.



Elmer was a member of Fron Lutheran Church for 55 years. He was a member of the VFW where he served as chaplain and post commander. He was also a member of the American Legion, the Shriners, the Masons, the Lions Club and was on the board of the Western Transport Association.



Elmer loved his family and especially enjoyed spending time with his grandsons, telling them stories, teaching them to drive and guiding them in being responsible, patriotic citizens. He loved the Starbuck community and enjoyed participating and supporting it. He was at his best meeting and interacting with people everywhere, calling them all friends and believing in their goodness. Elmer also enjoyed golfing and fishing with friends and family, working in his workshop and yard and reading during quiet times. His favorite subjects were current news and history, particularly World War II.



Elmer Died on December 22, 2007 at the Minnewaska Lutheran Home having reached the age of 88 years, three months and one day.



He is survived by his wife Genevieve of Starbuck; three children: Gary (Judy) Swenson of Taylors Falls, Vicki (Roger) Aaberg of Chaska and Steven (Lynn) Swenson of Brooklyn Park; six grandchildren: Court (Angela) Swenson of Jacksonville, FL, Nathan Swenson of Tucson AZ, Aric Swenson of Eagan, Joel Swenson of Brooklyn Park, Nicholas Swenson of Brooklyn Park, and Andrew Swenson of Brooklyn Park; one great-granddaughter: Audrey Paige Swenson; two sisters: Luella Friedrich of St. James and Eleanor Friedrich of Appleton, MN and many nieces and nephews.



He was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers: Clarence and Marvin and one sister: Marvel.



Pallbearers for the service are: Court Swenson, Nathan Swenson, Aric Swenson, Joel Swenson, Nicholas Swenson, Andrew Swenson, Clarence Swenson Jr. and Cary Jenson. Honorary pallbearers are all who called him friend. Shari Opdahl will serve as organist for the service with Arne Pederson and Vic Vatthauer providing special music. Starbuck Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.