Swenson, Merlin

Merlin Howard “Pete” Swenson, age 86, of Iola, made his journey into God’s loving arms on October 10, 2010, at his home. Merlin was born in Town of Helvetia, Wisconsin, on November 12, 1923, the son of the late Carl and Gertrude (Seims) Swenson on an exceptionally beautiful fall day. He married Lucille Larson on April 20, 1933 at Our Savior’s Lutheran Church in Iola. She survives. Merlin and Lucille raised 5 children all who were surrounding and embracing him in his last hours; Allan Swenson, Iola; Geri (Scott) Sannes, Scandinavia: Donna (Ben) Guthu, Scandinavia; Lee Swenson, Big Falls: and Lynn Swenson, Iola. He is also survived by grandchildren: Melissa Sannes, Kevin (Sina) Sannes, Rachel (Brian) Mefferd, Kyle Guthu, Kayla Guthu, Jace Guthu, Jackee Swenson, Lyndy Gavin, and Nick Swenson. Great-grandchildren Kadin Woiak, Malia and Elyn Sannes and Summer Going. Two sisters also survive: Carlene Lee, Stevens Point and Janice (Roger) Clapp, Sheboygan: He is further survived by a sister-in-law: Bev Aasen; a brother-in-law: Russ (Barb) Larson and nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by an infant brother and a sister: Marie Lindholm. Merlin graduated from Iola High School in 1941. He served in the U.S. Army from 1943-1946, being stationed in Greenland. He was a member of American Legion Post 14-Iola. Merlin apprenticed under his dad as a certified electrician. He had worked in Appleton and Minnesota with the IBEW-577 and then retired from the Waupaca Foundry as a maintenance electrician at age 62. He received his 50 yr. membership award with the IBEW-577 in September 2007. Merlin kept family history alive with stories, poetry, and recollections of the past. He passed down to his children and grandchildren his love and appreciation for animals, birds, and nature. He loved family outings, road trips and many years at the cottage up North at Crescent Lake. He also enjoyed spending time at “The Farm” north of Iola. He really enjoyed the time he spent with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. A memorial will be held Thursday, October 14, 2010 @ 11:00 AM at Our Savior’s Lutheran Church, Iola, with Reverend Dennis Olson officiating. Friends may call Thursday from 10 AM until the time of service at the church. Interment of cremains will be in the church cemetery.