James M. “Jim” Swenson, age 79, of Dubuque, IA, completed his earthly journey on October 22, 2025, at home while surrounded by his loving family.  To honor Jim’s life, a private family Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Jim’s family.

Jim was born on July 20, 1946, in Beloit, WI, a son to Einar G. and Marie E. (Erickson) Swenson.  He went on to live a full life with many travels throughout the country and experiences to last a lifetime.  Jim spent many years working with Rocky Mountain Colby Pipe, among others throughout his working career and always treasured each new adventure, friends and life lessons which came through each position.  He enjoyed his work, most of it anyway, and continually made sure that the day’s work was done before his free-time would become occupied with his hearts desires.  More often than not, Jim’s happy place was with a fishing pole ensconced firmly in hand.  It didn’t matter which waterway, bait, or season; all Jim knew was that if he was working on his next great catch, all was well.  He was also an avid sports fan throughout his years with the Broncos and Rockies always holding the top position when choosing who to cheer for.  But let it not be said that Jim didn’t also know where true happiness could be found when those moments were available as well.  With his grandkids by his side, or his favorite canine companions, Jim understood quite clearly that the greatest joy in life was only really going to be found and savored in those times.  His love for his family and loved ones was boundless and his commitment right up until the very end was easy to see.  We are going to miss Jim more than he could know and are forever grateful for each and every memory he leaves behind now.  Thank you, Jim, for simply being the best version of you we could ask for and may peace be yours now as we wait patiently to see your smiling face once again.

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Jim include,

his loving children,
Carol (Butch) Koestler, Dubuque, IA,
Tim Swenson, Denver, CO,
Fred (Jackie) Swenson, Monticello, WI,
Ed Swenson, Brodhead, WI,
Rebecca (Rick) Seffrood, Monticello, WI,
and Brenda (Randy) Diaz, Beloit, WI;

his grandchildren,
Jason (Michelle) Koestler, Jennifer (Joe) Miller, Shauna (Mark) Kerchner, Jammie (Brandon) Rehak, Theresa (Dan) Spicer, Alicia Swenson, Tim (Riley) Swenson, Kyle Swenson, Shane (Gloria) Swenson, Josh Swenson, Jill Swenson, Frankie Swenson, Jonathan (Gloria) Baldwin, Dylan Carpenter, Aric (Brooke) Seffrood, Adela Diaz and Brandon Diaz;

his over 30 great-grandchildren;

his siblings,
Stanley (Marian) Swenson,
Steve (Rose) Swenson,
Gail (Henry) Dominik,
Ruth (Leroy) Meyers,
and Joan Walker;

his first wife,
Arlene Stephan, Brodhead, WI;

along with numerous extended family, friends and neighbors.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Kitty L. Swenson; his siblings, Edwin (Marian) Swenson, Rose (Bob) Hinrichs and Sigrid (Roger) Peucker; and his brother-in-law, Johnny Walker.

Jim’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff at St. Croix Hospice for all of their wonderful care and support.  We would also like to extend a sincere and heartfelt thank you to Carol and Butch for taking such wonderful care of Jim over his last months among us.  Your unwavering love and support helped to remind Jim that he was never alone and always at peace.

Online condolences may be shared with Jim’s family at www.tristatecremationcenter.com