Lee Merlin Swenson, 58, of Big Falls passed unexpectedly at his home on March 6, 2020 with his pet Coleesee by his side.
Lee was born in Iola, April 20, 1961 to Lucille (Larson) Swenson and the late Merlin H. (Pete) Swenson. He is also survived by his loving children, Jacqline Swenson, Lyndy Gavin, Nickolas Swenson; granddaughter, Summer Going; the mother of his children, Christine Gavin; siblings: Allan Swenson, Geri (Scott) Sannes, Donna (Ben) Guthu and Lynn Swenson. Also, special nieces, nephews, relatives and friends, some of whom he met during his earlier working years at Anthony Farms, Miller Electric, Waupaca Foundry and “The Drive.”
Lee was gifted with many talents and trades. His most fulfilling was following the path of his Dad and Grandfather (Carl) as a third generation Master Electrician, eventually having his own business, “Swenson Electric.” Lee loved road trips on the back roads of Waupaca and Shawano counties and whatever family was available that day got a “free” history lesson on the people and places we passed. On these rides, seldom could he pass up a rummage sale in search of a good bargain, sometimes returning with his trailer to “pick up the loot!” As a young boy, his adventures were fishing for bullheads below the Iola dam, chasing frogs, garter snakes and riding his lil’ Indian mini-bike in the open fields. And, always a little mischief with the neighbor boys! Up at the cottage, Lee and his cousins could be found exploring the old logging trails or down at the lake searching for crayfish for the weekly crab boil. Something his children fondly remember as he continued this boil with them. Lee discovered at an early age that there were treasures to be found in the old private dumps. This is where his lifelong passion of collecting old bottles began. He had a great appreciation for nature and said some of his fondest memories were made while deer hunting at the farm and floating the rivers with his Dad and Brother.
Lee had a personal relationship with God and he claimed his Salvation through Jesus. With this knowledge, those of us left behind may find comfort and peace. He’ll miss the call of the first Sandhills and sightings of the first Bluebirds… but he didn’t miss the call from his Lord. We all needed you, but God needed you more!
What we once had enjoyed
We can never lose, All that we love deeply
Becomes a part of us
“Your Loving Family”
Due to the Coronavirus Pandemic, a Memorial and Celebration of Lee’s Life will be announced at a later date.