Ronald Elmo Swanson of Sarona died unexpectedly on March 6, 2021 at Sacred Heart Hospital in Eau Claire, WI at the age of 78.

Ronald was born on May 13, 1942 to Elmo “Skip” and Margaret (Voelker) Swanson in Prescott, WI, the second of nine children.

Ronald grew up on the banks of the Mississippi River in Hastings, MN. He married his high school sweetheart, Julia May Honken, whom he met while working at Eddies Café, a local eatery. They tied the knot on June 18, 1960 at Guardians Angels Church, Hastings MN.

Ronald and Julie first established a home in St. Paul prior to moving to Forest Lake, MN where they started raising a son and three daughters. Ronald worked as a plant foreman at the McMillen Company. In 1976 the family purchased Duffy’s Resort in Sarona WI. which they have operated for the past forty-five years.

Ronald was enthusiastically involved in providing an ever changing and unique experience to the patrons of Duffy’s, including beautician services (while also working at Regis Hair Salon in Rice Lake). Ronald was known as an avid fisherman who spent many hours sharing his secret bluegill locations with his grand- and great-grandchildren, and ridiculing the fishing prowess of their parents.

Ronald is survived by his wife of 60 years, Julie; three daughters: Rhonda Swanson of Haugen WI., Cathie (Rueben) Tiegs of Cumberland WI., Bridget (David) Rumphol of Eau Claire WI. and one son: Scott (Jill) Swanson of Chippewa Falls WI.; fifteen grandchildren; and twenty great-grandchildren. Ronald is also survived by three brothers: Gary Swanson, Donnie Swanson, Terry (Juanita) Swanson; and two sisters: Vicki (Scott) Denning, Ricki (Al) Blaeser. Ronald was preceded in death by his parents, one brother, and two sisters.

A gathering of friends and family will be from 10:00 am to noon Friday, March 12, 2021 at Skinner Funeral Home in Shell Lake, followed by a service and luncheon. UFF-DA

Last Update: Mar 09, 2021 1:11 pm CST