Bruce Swanson
Alton |
Bruce Erwin Swanson, a man of unwavering strength, compassion, and devotion, departed this world on January 6th, 2024, at the age of 71. Born on December 6th, 1952, in Kelowna, British Columbia, Canada, Bruce lived a life marked by service, love, and an unyielding commitment to his family, faith and community.
Bruce is survived by his beloved wife, Connie Jeanne Swanson, and their four sons, Sean (Leanore), Scott (Alana), Ryan (Amanda), and Joel (Holly). His legacy extends further through the eight cherished grandchildren who brought boundless joy to his life: Zachary (26), Benjamin (20), Samuel (20), Isabelle (18), Sophia (17), Jacob (15), Ella (14), and Amelia (11). He is predeceased by his parents Ely and Doris Swanson and his brother, Donald. Three siblings survive him; Myriam, Norman and Sharon in addition to many uncles, aunts, cousins, nieces and nephews.
Education was very important to Bruce throughout his life. After graduating from high school in Meaford, Ontario, Canada in 1970, he graduated from Greenville College, in Greenville, Illinois, in 1974 with a Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration. He was awarded a Doctor of Jurisprudence from Osgoode Hall Law School in Toronto, Ontario, Canada in 1977. He then graduated with Master of Arts in Religion from Trinity Evangelical Divinity in Deerfield, Illinois in 1990.
Throughout his life, Bruce epitomized resilience and dedication. While serving as a pastor, he supplemented to support his family through a myriad of roles including as a delivery driver, night janitor, funeral home attendant, and a bank branch manager. His tenacity and work ethic knew no bounds. Beyond providing for his family, Bruce served his community with unparalleled devotion for 19 years as a pastor. His spiritual leadership left an indelible mark, fostering love and service among his congregants. Notably, he played a pivotal role in establishing and nurturing a new church in Kamloops, British Columbia, Canada, guiding its growth and fostering a sense of community.
After years of spiritual leadership, Bruce transitioned back to the legal profession for the next 19 years, passing the Canadian bar exam on his first attempt and was officially “called to the bar” in 1998. He continued to extend a helping hand to those facing life's most challenging moments. His commitment to aiding others through their difficulties showcased his empathy, legal acumen, and an enduring desire to make a positive impact.
Bruce Erwin Swanson's life was a testament to the transformative power of love, faith, and service and he lived his life in service to Jesus Christ, his Lord and Savior. His memory will forever inspire those who had the privilege of knowing him. For those that desire, donations can be made in his honor to the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research in Bruce's honor (https://tiny.cc/Bruceswanson) and flowers can be sent to Main Street United Methodist located at 1400 Main St, Alton, IL 62002.
A memorial service to celebrate Bruce's life will be held on Wednesday, January 10th at Main Street United Methodist. Visitation starts at 10 am, with an 11 am service. The service will proceed to the graveside, with lunch to follow. May his soul rest in eternal peace, and may his family find solace in the enduring legacy of love and kindness he leaves behind. Additional information and online guest book may be found at www.gentfuneralhome.com.
Gent Funeral Home
