Susan Kay Swenson

Susan Kay Kappes Swenson, 79, of Mahomet, Illinois, died on March 29 after battling several long illnesses. Adored by her family for her boundless love and commitment to them, Susie was a cherished wife, mother, sister, grandmother, and great-grandmother.

Susie was born on June 26, 1945, in Rock Island, Illinois, to parents Clarence and Elizabeth Orr Kappes. She was also raised by her beloved stepfather Leonard Moran and was close to her siblings, Ted Kappes and Nita Kappes Iverson. Susie graduated in 1963 from Alleman High School and went to work at Iowa-Illinois Gas and Electric. There she met Duane Swenson, her husband of 60 years and dedicated life partner.

Susie excelled at work but her abiding priority was her family. She poured her love into building a close-knit family filled with laughter, her creations in the garden and home interiors, and plenty of dessert. Talented, creative, and self-taught, Susie had many artistic pursuits. She loved making items for her family including quilts, clothing, and intricate cards. Susie would do anything for her family, from embracing all of her children’s interests to retiring to help care for her twin grandsons. Her favorite times were being together, retelling family stories, and drinking coffee anywhere with Duane.

Survived by Duane; children Jon and Denise Swenson, Pam and Steve Breer, Beth and Karl Sawyer, and Steve Swenson and Suzy Frisch; grandchildren Ryne Swenson, Dalton and Jenn Swenson, Maddie Swenson, Grace Swenson, Evie Swenson, Josh Breer, Leo Sawyer, and Rose Sawyer; great-granddaughters, Lilia and Luna Swenson; and many nieces and nephews.

Services will be private. In lieu of flowers, donations preferred to the Alzheimer’s Association.

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