Dennis Alan Swanson

Dennis Alan Swanson, 71, of Orion, IL, died Thursday, April 28, 2016, at home.

Per his wishes, cremation rites have been accorded and the family will hold a Celebration of Life at a later date.  Memorials may be made to the Henry County Humane Society, the Jim and Trudy Maloof St. Jude Midwest Affiliate Clinic, or to the grandchildren’s college fund.  Kirk, Huggins & Esterdahl Funeral Home, Ltd., Orion, is assisting the family with arrangements.

Dennis was born on February 3, 1945, in Moline, IL, the son of Charles and Ruth Lewis Swanson.  He married Pat Grenko Hecker on March 31, 1990, in Orion, IL.  He was a lifelong resident of Orion, where he lived and worked as a farmer.  He loved the small town and wouldn’t have wanted to live anywhere else.

Dennis was a member of St. Paul Lutheran Church, enjoyed collecting John Deere toys, spending time with family and friends, and attending his grandchildren’s sporting events.  He truly enjoyed having lunch with his long time high school buddies.

Survivors include his loving wife, Pat; stepson, Michael (Barb) Hecker, Milan, IL; stepdaughter, Michele Ross, Moline, IL; grandchildren, Mariah and Detric Ross, Bailey and Peyton Hecker; 3 brothers-in-law, Donald Grenko, Silvis, IL, Charles Grenko, Des Moines, IA, and Stanley (Rose Ann) Grenko, Chicago, IL; sister-in-law, Urdine Grenko, Albuquerque, NM; 11 step nieces; 2 step nephews; several cousins, 3 special cousins, Patty Price, Trophy Club, TX, Janice Schnowsky, Wyanet, IL, and Leslie Goodman, Paducah, KY; and many good friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

Memories may be shared online by visiting esterdahl.com.