Carl E. Swanson

Carl E. Swanson, 85, of Loves Park, passed away Friday, January 15, 2021. He was born on May 12, 1935. Carl graduated from East High School in 1953 where he was the major of the marching band. After running track for 3 years he started the first boy's cross country team during his senior year. Carl received his civil engineering degree from Iowa State University. After serving in the United States Army, Carl married Janice E. Siffren on December 16, 1961 in Bethesda Covenant Church. They lived in Cedar Rapids, Iowa for 7 years where Carl was an assistant engineer for the Linn County building department. Then they moved back to Rockford where Carl was employed by Sjostrom & Sons. He managed several road construction crews before becoming an estimator and eventually a Vice President. Carl was a true sports fan. His favorite college teams were Iowa State and Ohio State University. He was also an avid fan of the Chicago Bears, Chicago Bulls, and the St. Louis Cardinals. Carl thoroughly enjoyed being a spectator and attended a countless number of ball games throughout his life, as well as watching them on TV. Because of his love for his kids and all sports, Carl became an exceptional coach. He passionately coached his sons' soccer and basketball teams as well as becoming undefeated in his daughter's AYSO soccer team. More important, Carl always attended all of his children's sporting events from elementary school through college. Carl was always a loyal, trustworthy, fair and honest man. 

Survivors include his wife, Janice; children, Dr. Scott (Sarah) Swanson, Dr. Kurt (Erin) Swanson and Kay (Swanson) Bush; grandchildren, Bret, Anna, Peter and Britta. Predeceased by his parents and brother, Paul. 

A celebration of life will be held at a later date. Memorials in his name may be sent to The Salvation Army, 500 S. Rockford Ave., Rockford, IL 61104. 

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Carl E. Swanson, please visit our floral store.