Arthur Ragnar Swanson

life story

A Caring Father and Friend, and Dedicated Attorney

Arthur Ragnar Swanson

1944–2025

Arthur Ragnar Swanson, known to most as Art, passed away on December 1, 2025, at the age of 80, just weeks shy of his 81st birthday on December 22.

Art was born in 1944 in Chicago, Illinois, adopted by Astrid M. Anderson of Rockford, Illinois, and Eric Swanson of Skåne County, Sweden. He spent much of his life in Rockford, a community he served faithfully for more than five decades.

Art was an attorney for over 53 years, practicing law in Rockford, Illinois, and was still actively practicing at the time of his passing. He was a dedicated, vigilant advocate for his clients, known for his intelligence, integrity, and steadfast commitment to justice.

Beyond his professional life, Art lived with curiosity and enthusiasm. He was an avid skier, having skied extensively throughout the United States and Europe. He was also a passionate motorcycle owner and rider, making the journey to Sturgis, South Dakota more than seven times — often accompanied by his dogs, especially his beloved Hana, who rode proudly in the motorcycle’s sidecar.

Art was a prolific reader and devoted book collector, rarely seen without a book close at hand. His love of learning fueled many thoughtful conversations, and those who knew him valued his sharp mind, wide-ranging knowledge, and wonderful sense of humor.

He also cared deeply about the world beyond himself, supporting and donating to organizations such as the Sierra Club, The Nature Conservancy, and Doctors Without Borders. On a lighter note, Art had a fondness for blueberries and never turned down a good slice of blueberry pie.

Art was married twice, first to Linda and later to Janet. He is survived by his son, Daniel S. Swanson, who remembers him as a caring father and a trusted friend.

Art had many friends and acquaintances throughout the Rockford area who appreciated his intelligence, generosity of spirit, and engaging conversations. He will be remembered with respect, affection, and gratitude by all who knew him.

No formal services are planned at this time. A celebration and remembrance of life gathering will be planned for early 2026.

memorial service

There is no service planned at this time, but there will be a remembrance gathering sometime early 2026.

Funeral/Cremation Provider: Olson Funeral & Cremation Services Ltd., Fred C Olson Chapel