Helen Swanson

Helen Avis (Martin) Swanson

Helen Swanson, age 92 years and eight months of White Bear Lake, formerly of Winthrop, MN, who suffered from Primary Progressive Aphasia [PPA] for seven years, died in her sleep on Saturday, August 24.

Helen was born in Alfsborg Township to Esther Alida [Lundberg] and Oscar Edward Martin and baptized at First Lutheran Church in Winthrop. She graduated from Winthrop High School in May of 1949 and went onto graduate from Minnesota School of Business on February 3, 1950. On September 8, 1951, Helen married Robert Nels [Chouinard] Swanson at First Lutheran Church. They were married 47.5 years before his passing in June of 1999.

Prior to taking up her chosen profession of wife, mother, homemaker, and farmer, Helen was employed at the Gaylord Court House as a professional secretary. Helen was a gifted tailor, and service-oriented participant in her church, women's groups, 4H (as member and leader), Extension Office, and various farm associations. Her hobbies included card games, specifically Bridge and 500, baking, bowling, quilting, furniture refinishing, and reupholstering. She was also a skilled musician, playing both piano and clarinet, and as a vocalist.

Helen was preceded in death by her husband, Robert Swanson; son, Bradley Allen Swanson; parents, Esther, and Oscar Martin; brother, John O.E. Martin; and sister in laws, Lois [Greiner] Martin and Arleen [Comnick] Martin, and other family including grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins.

She is survived by her daughters, Deborah Jean Swanson, Kristi Swanson Ames [Fred], and Wendi Kay [Swanson] Wright all residing in White Bear Lake, MN; brother, Ronald Martin of Winthrop; four grandchildren, and five great grandchildren.

A private interment was held on Thursday, August 29.

A Celebration of Life Memorial Service is planned for Saturday, November 2 at First Lutheran Church of Winthrop, 213 North Hennepin ST, 55396. Doors open at 10:30 A.M. and lunch will be served following the event in the church dining hall.

In lieu of flowers donations can be sent to the General Fund of First Lutheran Church, PO Box 598, Winthrop, MN 55396.