Mr. Robert K. Swanson, 88, of Galesburg, Illinois died at 9:39 a.m. Saturday, February 15, 2025, at the Allure of Lake Storey, Galesburg.
He was born on January 13, 1937, in Galva, Illinois to Robert and Pansy (Jackson) Swanson.
He is survived by a son, Steve (and Irene), three daughters, Theresa (and Greg), Bobbi (and Steve) and Farren (and Cecil), a stepdaughter, Kelly Reed, a brother, a sister, nine grandchildren, eight great grandchildren, several stepchildren, nieces and nephews, and other “family” members. He was preceded in death by his parents, his fiancé, Nancy Whitby, a sister, a son, and a grandson.
Robert attended Galva schools. He worked as a dispatcher and in safety training for Star Transportation System and Sharkey Transportation. He retired in 1999. After retirement, he had a small lawn care business. He was a member of the High Priest Royal Arch Masonic Lodge. Robert was known as “The Bird Man” as he raised and raced pigeons.
Visitation will be from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, March 8, 2025, at Hinchliff-Pearson-West Funeral Directors and Cremation Services Galesburg Chapel. A graveside service will follow at 11:30 a.m. at Oak Lawn Memorial Gardens, Galesburg. Chaplain Jordan Knight will officiate. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Knox County Humane Society or Hospice Compassus in Galesburg. Online condolences may be shared at www.h-p-w.com.
