James L. Swanson

James L. Swanson, 79, of Humboldt, passed away May 1, 2018 at his home in Humboldt. Private family services are planned. The Mason-Lindhart Funeral Home of Humboldt is assisting the family.
James Lester Swanson, the son of Lester and Esther (Schwidder) Swanson, was born June 28, 1938 at Rockwell City, Iowa. He grew up in Lake City and graduated from Lake City High School with the class of 1956. He attended Valparaiso University in Valparaiso, Indiana where he met Diane Johnson. Jim enlisted into the Army National Guard and served from September 1960 until August 1961. On September 9, 1961, he and Diane were united in marriage at Harvey, Illinois. The couple made their home in Chicago where Jim worked for Nabisco before becoming a salesman for Wausau Homes. Jim readily accepted a transfer with the company to Iowa to be closer to his brother and the family made their home in Humboldt in 1977. A salesman and people person at heart, Jim enjoyed his work in various sales positions throughout his career.
Jim dedicated his time to things related to his children’s activities such as Humboldt Music Boosters, as an Elder at Zion Lutheran Church, and as a member of the Elderbridge Board of Directors. He sincerely missed his wife and talked of her often. A nature lover, Jim enjoyed hikes in the woods, sailing on Twin Lakes, woodworking, and served as lifeguard and camp counselor in his younger days. He was an avid Iowa Hawkeye fan, but above all, Jim adored his grandchildren and enjoyed bike riding with them and was passionate about their sporting events.
Jim is survived by his daughter Karin (Steve) Sande of Humboldt; son, Erik Swanson of Humboldt; grandchildren, Ethan (Mariah) Sande, Elijah Sande, Jonah Sande, and Laynee Swanson; great granddaughter, Inarah Sande; brother, Joel (Mary) Swanson; and sister, Lorene (David) Liddle. He was preceded in death by his parents and his beloved wife, Diane Swanson.