Yvonne Swanson

Yvonne Swanson, 87, of Milbank, SD, passed away on Wednesday, August 7, 2024, at St. William Care Center in Milbank.

A private family service will be held at a later date.

Yvonne Kathleen Meyer was born on July 24, 1937, in New Ulm, Minnesota, to Paul and Rebecca (Mehlhop) Meyer. As one of ten children in the Meyer family, Yvonne grew up in a lively and loving household. She attended Gibbon country school, and later graduated in 1955.

On July 19, 1968, Yvonne married the love of her life, Virgil Swanson, in Watertown, SD. Their marriage was a testament to love and partnership, lasting through many decades filled with adventures and shared memories. While raising her children, Yvonne worked various part-time jobs, balancing her responsibilities as a mother with her contributions to the workforce. Her dedication to her family and her work was admirable and set a strong example for her children. 

Yvonne had a passion for life that was evident in the activities she enjoyed. She loved spending time with her family, particularly “her girls”, Ashlee and Emily. Yvonne also had a fondness for word searches, and bingo. Known for her unwavering positivity, Yvonne had an optimistic outlook and was a source of inspiration for those around her. Yvonne and Virgil spent their winters in the warmer climates of Texas and Arizona, enjoying the sunshine and the slower pace of life.

Yvonne is survived by her children: Brian (Janna) Swanson of Grand Forks, ND; Jody (Monte Richardson) Sokolosky of Watertown, SD; and Paula (Ted) Van Hoorn of Milbank, SD. She also leaves behind six grandchildren: Cody (Larissa) Sokolosky of Watertown, SD; Shane (Haley) Sokolosky of Sioux Falls, SD; Emily (Michael Karges) Van Hoorn of Milbank, SD; Ashlee Van Hoorn of Milbank, SD; Kyle (Chelsey) Swanson of Grand Forks, ND; and Casey (Elizabeth Thompson) Swanson of East Grand Forks, MN; and five great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Paul and Rebecca Meyer, her husband Virgil Swanson, her eight siblings, and her beloved dog, Simon.