Harold E. Swanson, 86, passed away on Aug. 22, 2014, on his family farm. Harold was born April 8, 1928, in Hutchinson, the son of Eskel Herbert and Hannah (Anderson) Swanson.

Harold, the consummate farmer, was doing what he loved out on his tractor when he made his transition. We should all be so lucky. Harold was born and raised in Reno County. His grandfather, John Swanson, immigrated from Sweden in the late 1800's, and the Swanson family farm has been in Reno County ever since.
Harold graduated from Hutchinson High School in 1946, followed by two years at Hutchinson Community College.

Harold married the love of his life, Donna Jean Olson, on July 5, 1953, here in Hutchinson. It was only 107 degrees that day, so hot the candles melted at the altar. Harold and Donna just celebrated their 61st anniversary.

Harold is survived by: his wife of 61 years, Donna; three children and their spouses, Kim and Les Brack, Hal Swanson and partner Dan Ollis, and Guy and Mary Swanson; five grandchildren, Matt and Val Brack, Jillian and Brian Ladd, Paige Swanson, McKenzie Swanson, and Conner (aka George) Swanson; four great-grandchildren, Addi and Blake Brack, Hannah and Henry Ladd; and longtime special family friend, Marjorie Keller.
Harold was preceded in death by his two brothers, John and Donald Swanson, and his parents, Eskel and Hannah Swanson.

Harold was a lifetime member and the unofficial church greeter of Emanuel Lutheran Church. He received the lifetime achievement award from the Reno County Cattlemen's Association and his farm received the Century Farm Award from the Reno County Farm Bureau. Over the years, Harold was involved in a multitude of organizations and always believed in supporting the local economy. Harold always said he built his farm on dry land wheat and Hereford cattle. He was a great steward of the land with which he was blessed.
Harold had a warm heart and everyone he met he considered a friend. He will be greatly missed.

Funeral will be at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, Aug. 26, 2014, at Emanuel Lutheran Church, 140 E. 30, Hutchinson, with Pastors Tim Carey and Phil Vickers officiating. Burial will be in Eastside Cemetery, Hutchinson. Friends may sign the book from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday at Elliott Mortuary, Hutchinson, and from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday. The family will receive friends Monday evening at Emanuel Lutheran Church, 140 East 30, Hutchinson, from 5 to 7 p.m.

Memorials may be made to the Emanuel Lutheran Church, T.E.C.H., Reins of Hope and/or the Boys and Girls Club of Hutchinson, all in care of Elliott Mortuary, 1219 North Main St., Hutchinson, KS, 67501.