Wilma J. Swanson

Wilma J. Swanson, age 92 of rural Hoople, ND passed away on Saturday, August 24, 2019 at the Lutheran Sunset Home of Grafton, ND.

Wilma J. Steinmetz was born July 5, 1927 to William G. “Bill” and Mabel (Peterson-Reamer) Steinmetz in Carson, ND.  She attended school in Jamestown, ND and graduated from Jamestown High School in 1945.  She moved to Grafton, ND and worked as a telephone operator.  Wilma was united in marriage to the love of her life, Richard T. (Richie) Swanson on June 30, 1955 in San Antonio, TX while Richie was stationed at Fort Sam Houston.  Following his military service, they lived and farmed near Hoople where they raised their four sons.   Wilma and Richie enjoyed travelling and spending their winters in Arizona visiting family and friends. Richie passed away November 30, 1992.

After Richie passed away, Wilma continued to spend her winters in Arizona with her sister, Ducky, as her travelling companion. She was the quintessential farm wife, baking her delicious pies, cakes, brownies, and cookies for her family. Wilma was devoted to her loving husband and their four boys of whom she was so proud.  She was very active in her faith as it was very important to her.

Wilma is survived by her and Richie’s four sons; Gregg (Celes) Swanson, Detroit Lakes, MN; Clay (Nancy) Swanson, Hoople, ND; Blake Swanson, Grafton ND and Bart (Sophia) Swanson, Hoople, ND.  Grandchildren; Jane Swanson, Meg Swanson, Clark Swanson, Kadrie (Derek) Carpenter, Emily Swanson and Alex Swanson.  Sister;  Mildred Seaborn, Valley City, ND; and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

She was preceded in death by her parents Bill and Mabel, husband Richie, granddaughter Ashley daughter of Bart and Sophia, brother Leonard Steinmetz, half-brothers Howard Reamer, Mark Reamer, half-sister, Emma Reamer Steinmetz and brother-in-law Gale Steinmetz.

A private family service will be held. Inurnment will be at the North Trinity Lutheran Cemetery.