Pastor Kelvin L. Swanson

Pastor Kelvin Swanson, 71, of Rockford, Illinois, entered into the presence of his Savior on December 13th, 2025. Born with a gentle spirit, Kelvin lived a life marked by faithfulness, humility, and steadfast love. For 30 years, he led Berean Baptist Church of Beloit, Wisconsin, shepherding his church family with grace, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to the Gospel. His love for his Savior shaped every part of his life, and his dedication to serving others touched countless hearts.

Kelvin was married for 52 years to the love of his life and childhood sweetheart, Sherrie (Coad) Swanson. Together, they built a home filled with laughter, warmth, and unshakable devotion. Their love was an example to all who knew them.

He was a proud and loving father to Michael (Joanna) Swanson, Troy (Mimi) Swanson, and Lindsie (Aaron) Combs, and a joyful grandfather to Elisa (Nate) Bradley, Ethan, Eli, Tyler (Allison) Swanson, Collin, Lucas, Lilly, Brooklynn, and Parker. His family was his greatest earthly treasure, and he cherished every moment spent with them. 

Kelvin was one of eight siblings and he loved each of them in a very special way. He also dearly loved his nieces and nephews, taking genuine interest in their lives and celebrating their joys and accomplishments. 

Family was always important to him, and some of his fondest memories were made during family picnics on the farm and vacations to Mountain Home, Arkansas. Those times of laughter, togetherness, and simple joy remained close to his heart and were often recalled with a smile.

Kelvin loved to sing, though he often insisted he “couldn’t carry a tune.” Even so, he always had a song on his heart, and those who knew him will forever remember his cheerful whistling. 

Known for putting others before himself, Kelvin served both his family and church with quiet strength and genuine kindness. His legacy is one of faith, love, and a life lived fully for Christ.

He will be dearly missed, but we rejoice knowing he is now singing, perfectly, in the presence of the One he loved so deeply.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Melvin & Geraldine Swanson and brother DeWayne Swanson.

Visitation will be on Friday, December 19th from 9:00-11:00am at Berean Baptist Church, 5626 Safford Rd., Rockford, IL, followed by the service. A luncheon will be provided following a private family burial.

 In lieu of flowers the family requests that donations be made to the building fund of Berean Baptist Church, 1992 Shopiere Rd., Beloit, WI.

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