Ronald J. Swanson

Ronald J. Swanson, 85, of Cambridge, passed away on Wednesday, December 25, 2024, at Liberty Village, Princeton, IL. A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, January 11, 2025, at Vandemore Funeral Home, Geneseo, IL. Reverend Terry Lancaster will officiate.  Cremation rites have been accorded. A private family inurnment will be held at Oakwood Cemetery.  Visitation will be held from 5:00-7:00 p.m. on Friday, January 10, 2025, at Vandemore Funeral Homes & Crematory – Geneseo Chapel. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the Ronald J. Swanson Memorial Fund.

Ronnie was born January 11, 1939, the son of Herbert and Cordice (Armstrong) Swanson. He grew up in rural Geneseo and graduated from Geneseo High School in 1957 where he was a member of FFA and 4H. Ronnie married Maxine DeKezel on November 3, 1962. Together, they farmed in Henry County for nearly 40 years. Ronnie also worked as a Crop Adjuster for Rain & Hail for more than 20 years. 

Ronnie proudly served 6 years in the Army Reserves and was a lifetime member of the Moose and Farm Bureau. 

In his younger years, Ronnie bowled in men’s and couples' leagues and participated in a neighborhood card club. Ronnie enjoyed driving and took long vacations across the country. He and Maxine relished in the simple pleasures of “going for a ride” & “going for coffee” almost daily.

After Maxine’s passing in 2022, Ronnie’s oldest grandson, Kyle, became his partner-in-crime. Kyle introduced Grandpa to fishing and in return, Grandpa introduced Kyle to the fine-art of discussing all-things relevant with “the guys” at McDonalds. Kyle and Grandpa spent countless hours driving along the Hennepin Canal stopping to fish in the summer or count eagles in the winter.

Ronnie didn’t often put his feelings into words, but his actions left no doubt about how much he valued his family. His steady, dependable presence was a constant source of comfort and reassurance. In true fashion as a strong, stubborn Swede, he showed his pride and care in subtle, unspoken ways that left a lasting impact on those he loved. 

Those left to cherish his memory include children, Rhonda (Dave) Rusk of Cambridge, IL and Rob (Melissa) Swanson of Mesa, AZ; grandchildren, Kyle, Ryan and Ryley Rusk and Caleb (Sylvia) and Myah Swanson; sisters Lauretta Drescher, Indianapolis, IN; Linda (Bob) Six, Geneseo, IL; in-laws: Doris Swanson & Norma Swanson of Geneseo;  David (Chris) DeKezel, Cambridge: Mark DeKezel, Geneseo; Marilyn (Jack) Blair of Davenport, IA, and Debra (Merle) Muller, Sioux City, IA and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers Kenneth, Stan & Darrell; brother-in-law Clarence Drescher; nephews Keith, Steve & Scott.

Ronnie will be remembered for his warm spirit, devotion to family, and passion for the simple joys of life. Though deeply missed, his family finds comfort in knowing that he is now joyfully reunited with Maxine, his wife of nearly 60 years. The two were inseparable, sharing a life filled with love, laughter, and unwavering partnership. The past two years without Maxine were incredibly difficult for Ronnie, but in a poignant and beautiful way, their reunion happened on Christmas Day—a fitting reminder of the love, joy, and togetherness they shared. The family finds comfort in knowing they are reunited once more, sharing eternal peace.