Clarence "Gus" Gust Swenson

Clarence Gust Swenson, better known as Gus, Dad, Grandpa, Papa, or Papa Gus to those that loved him most, passed away of a broken heart Wednesday, November 24, 2021, one hour shy of the anniversary with his bride and wife of 60 years, Sharon Rae Swenson. In true Gus fashion, he tried to do what Sharon had asked of him to make it to their anniversary, but Gus knew he had lived a good life and left a legacy of children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and several special relatives. With his children by his side, and their promise to take care of their mother, Gus left this earth peacefully at a local hospital.

Gus, 87, was born in Payne, MN on December 12, 1933. Gus married Sharon on November 25, 1961. They led a beautiful life in their home of 60 years in Culver, MN with their 5 children. Gus served his country proudly in the US Army. He led his family well by working hard at Ulland Brothers, finishing his 35 year employment with the company in 1995 as a Supervisor. He expected hard work from his crew, but returned that effort with fairness and respect. He leaned into Sharon for holding the house and children down. The kids knew if they caused Mom problems, there would be hell to pay when Dad got home. However, there was never a doubt, when they succeeded in school, sports, or life their dad would be there for that as well. Gus always wanted what was best for his family.

Gus enjoyed reading books and was always working on the next challenging puzzle. The grandkids have grown up looking forward to Grandpa’s bacon and eggs and Kool-Aid. Another favorite that got everyone to the table was when he would whip up a batch of Grandma Greer’s dip. For many years during the summer months, Gus would always have a very meticulous garden that he worked diligently at keeping. If you stopped by on a fall night, chances are you could catch Gus eating pizza, popcorn, or apple fritters while yelling at his Minnesota Vikings or Dallas Stars.

Gus was a true example of what a man should be. He worked hard to support his family. He always looked for ways to make their lives better. Gus looked forward to seeing his kids, grandkids, great grandkids, friends, and family. Most of all, Gus had an unconditional love for Sharon until his last breath.

Gus was preceded in death by his son, Greg Swenson; and daughter, Michelle Swenson.

Gus leaves behind his wife, Sharon Swenson of Culver, MN; children, Julie (Leroy) Eddy of Virginia, MN, Denise (Brian) Isaacson of Saginaw, MN, and Scott (Catie) Swenson of Texarkana, TX; grandchildren, Kimberly (Marty) Moran of Winona, MN, Travis (Abbey) Eddy of Park City, UT, Zachary Isaacson of St. Louis Park, MN, Tiffany Isaacson of Duluth, MN, Grant, Tyler and SJ Swenson of Texarkana, TX; great-grandchildren, Jameson, Colter, and Little Gust; a special sister-in-law, Sandi Haggy of Duluth, MN; special nephew, Rick (Sarah) Greer of Culver, MN; as well as many other friends and relatives.

The family wishes to celebrate the lives of Gus and Sharon on Tuesday, January 18th and invite all who want to join them for a joint service at St. Raphael Catholic Church, 5779 Seville Road, Duluth, MN. Visitation to start at 1:00 PM with the service to follow at 2:00 PM. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Sharon Swenson c/o Denise Isaacson, 6143 Seville Road, Saginaw, MN 55779. This money will be used for the benefit of the South Ridge School Library.

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