Andrew Swanson Obituary

Andrew Swanson
Born: July 27, 1958 in Mendota, IL
Died: December 15, 2021 in Peoria, IL
Our dear, big brother, Andrew F. Swanson, passed away at OSF St. Francis Medical Center, Peoria on the evening of Wednesday, December 15, 2021 after a brief illness.
He was born July 27, 1958 and raised in Mendota and was a graduate of MTHS. He was a proud veteran of the United States Army. At various times he was a newspaper deliveryman, a janitor, and a security guard. He also was the primary caretaker of his parents allowing them to stay in their home in Mendota until their deaths. As a boy, Andy was a member of the Boy Scouts and fostered a love of the outdoors – especially fishing which continued throughout his life. He enjoyed walking around town and would happily strike up a conversation with anyone who had the time to listen. Most recently, Andy lived in LaSalle where he pursued a small crafting business out of his home.
Andy is survived by two brothers - Brian of Island Lake, IL and Colin (Sharon) of Pasco, WA, and a sister, Dennet, also of Island Lake, IL. He leaves behind 4 nieces, 2 nephews, and 5 (almost 6) great-nephews. In addition he will be missed by an uncle, C. Leslie Swanson and wife, Lois, of Anniston, AL, a cousin, Laurie Wright (George) of Atlanta, GA, another cousin, Heather Rundell of Mendota and their families.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Albert and Jean (Watkins) Swanson of Mendota, his paternal grandparents, August and Bertha (Graham) Swanson of Malden, his maternal grandparents, Orrie and Shirley (Holcomb) Watkins of Moline, an uncle Roger Swanson of Malden, an uncle and aunt P. John and Sharon (Watkins) Harris of Mendota/Arlington, and a cousin, Linda Swanson of Dunlap, IL.
The family wishes to thank the LaSalle Veterans Affairs office, the staff at IVCH St. Margaret's Hospital, Peru, and the staff at OSF Hospital in Peoria for their care and assistance to Andy. We especially are grateful to and want to thank Chief Mike Smudzinski and his officers and staff at the LaSalle Police Department for going far above and beyond any expectations in watching out for and helping Andy. At this most special time of the year when families are coming together to celebrate, please spend an extra moment appreciating those still with you and remembering those who missing.
A graveside service will be held at 1:00 p.m. Thursday, January 13, 2022 at Restland Cemetery, Mendota with Rev. Mary Bohall officiating. Military honors will be presented by Mendota VFW Post 4079 Merritt Funeral Home, Mendota is assisting the family.
Memorials may be directed to the family. Online condolences may be left at www.merrittfh.com