Service Details
Thursday, June 1, 2017
Grace Church, 3626 Ole Davidson Road (Hwy 31), Racine, WI 53405
- Visitation: 4:00 – 6:30
- Funeral Service: 6:30
Friday, June 2, 2017
Interment & Military Honors at Graceland Cemetery
- Please meet at the gate at 9:45
Memorial Suggestions
- Career Industries
- Disabled American Vets Fund.
Racine – Robert (Roby) John Swanson Jr, 67, passed away on Friday, May 26, 2017 in Racine, Wisconsin. He was born in Hibbing, Minnesota at 3:45 p.m. on July 27, 1949 to the late Robert and Jean (nee: Kniep) Swanson. Growing up, Roby spent his summers in a cabin on Island Lake where he and his sisters would waterski from sunup to sundown. He went on to develop a deep passion for cars, both for their form and function. Having mastered the art of racing as well as building & restoration, one of his most prized accomplishments was his 1967 Blue GTO convertible with white interior. What he prized most, however, were his family and friends.
Roby was drafted into the U.S. Army in 1969. Because he had scored highly on the general-aptitude test and displayed an unusual propensity for math, he was trained as an FO-FAC (forward observer, fire air control). He was then moved to Fort Lewis, Washington, where he received ARVN training in jungle warfare. He went on to serve one tour in Pleiku Province in the Western Central Highlands of Vietnam. He would later recall his time in Pleiku as the one short year that defined the rest—his army fatigues becoming a husk he could never shed or shake loose from. But on May 3, 1996, he married the love of his life, Bonnie Jean Brown. It was her innate understanding of the human spirit coupled with her unwavering love for Roby that, over the course of their marriage, allowed her to walk alongside him in his own brokenness. Bonnie, along with their 5 children, continued to help peel back those layers that confined him—until finally laying bare his truest self, which was always kind and generous and true.
Roby’s propensities for mathematics lead him to at first consider a career in engineering. However, he soon realized that accounting was his true calling and went on to earn a two-year senior accounting certificate from the Minnesota School of Business. Roby excelled at drafting business models as well as negotiating and structuring acquisitions. He spent the last 17 years of his work life with W.T. Walker Group Inc., where he served as both vice president of finance and chief financial officer.
To those who had the privilege of knowing him, Roby was a master storyteller. Whether he was describing the blue-collar houses that lined Franklin Avenue in their hometown or the color of the night sky after an ambush, the memories he kept were like photographs. Catalogued and collated, he could reach for them at will, always delivering them with urgency and intoxicating enthusiasm. What we all wouldn’t give to hear just one more of his stories—to watch his hands flail in the air, to see that mischievous smile light up his face as he reaches the story’s most climactic moment? Those stories—along with every word of advice, every selfless act of kindness and generosity—have already claimed their stake and taken root in us all. Let them continue to keep us in a state of perpetual growth. Let them remind us that we are always becoming better than we are.
Roby is survived by his loving wife, Bonnie Swanson of Caledonia; his children: Angie Flores of Racine, John (and Leslie) Bruno of Boulder, Colorado, Jennifer Bruno of Kenosha, Elizabeth (and Sam) Modder of Racine, and Stephanie Rose Swanson of Burlington; 11 grandchildren: Breana (and Bobby), Amber, Anthony, April, Leaf, Forest, Audrianna, Alexis, Tristan, Uriah, and Willa; 2 great-grandchildren: Lincoln and Ayden; his twin sister Karen Alvord of Racine, and sister Ethel (and Terry) Dowling of Stockton, California; niece Amber Alvord of Waseca, Minnesota; sister-in-law Barbara (and Dominic) Lupo of Racine; father-in-law William Leber of Hibbing, Minnesota; as well as other relatives and friends. He was also preceded in death by his son-in-law David Flores; and brothers-in-law, Max Alvord, Tom Brown, and John Brown.
Services will be held at Grace Church on Thursday, June 1, 2017. Visitation will begin at 4:00 pm and be followed by his funeral service at 6:30 pm. Interment and military honors in Graceland Cemetery will take place 10:00 am on Friday, June 2, 2017. Please meet inside the front gate at 9:45 am. Memorials in his name have been suggested to Career Industries, or the Disabled American Vets Fund.
Anonymous says
Bonnie and family-
Roby has been a part of our world on so many levels for so long. We are so deeply saddened by your loss. Know how much he was loved and how much he loved you all, his family.
Dave and Karla Boho
Ron Dowdy says
Thank you for being a friend and mentor.
Karen Modder-Border says
So stunned and saddened by this unexpected event. Roby was a great business man, but even more he was a strong father, a loving husband, and a great mentor for many members of his family. He will be greatly missed. Blessings to all.
Don Byrd says
Thank you for the opportunity to get to know you. I am proud to remember you as a friend and someone I looked up to. The brief time I knew you resulted in some of the fondest memories I will never forget. Thanks again for everything. Rest in peace my friend.
Dave and Julie Maurer says
We are so saddened by the loss of our friend. Roby was a very close friend to both of us as Bonnie remains. One of the most generous people I have ever met especially when it came to listening and inspiring hope while being an incredible analyst of almost any business, organization, strategy or the relationships that people have within those organizations. He was a truth seeker and a truth teller whose understanding of data was matched by his compassion and support for all who were sincere in their efforts and limited patience for those who were not. His love for his family and friends was infinite and his passing will leave a hole in many hearts including ours but his life will keep giving us all fond and loving memories that will never disappear or fade..
Mark Gelhaus says
Thanks Roby you lifted us all up!
Anonymous says
Bonnie & Family,
I feel like I know you all, Roby talked about his family a lot with me. He loved you guys so much. I loved hearing about the houseboat vacation. Roby hired me at Walker Forge TN. He trained me. Such a great boss, family man, friend, co-worker, and good businessman. He will be missed. My thoughts and prayers are with you guys!
Angela Masters
Bob, Pat, Lisa, James, Gu, Joe, Frank & Barb says
Roby was one of the nicest men we’ve ever known. His passing is a tremendous loss to us all, he always put others ahead of himself. Thank you Roby for all you gave to all of us. You are greatly missed.
Tom and Sandi Gray says
Prayers I am in total shock, I loved this great cousin of mine forever, he was my rock and a wonderful human being. I am so glad he found Bonnie who is and was a true balance to his life. Our heart are empty since this has happened, I cherish the memories I have of him with Karen and Ethel, Cousins whoI have loved forever. Prayers to Family, and Love to Bonnie and Stephanie.
Jason Scott says
Roby you were a work Brother like no other. Always enjoyed the times we had in the office and on the road. My prayers are with you and your family.
God Bless
Peggy Brown says
Bonnie and Family,
I am so saddened that Roby has left this world. Just like we all, sometimes God picks the most beautiful flowers. I know he will be missed so much, but I also know that his love for you and his family means he will always be close. May you find peace in knowing that you will be with him again and until then you have a guardian angel.
Jayne and steven says
Roby you were a great friend and mentor to my son Steven I have so much to say but words can not begin to saywhat you have meant to my son and my self do not worry about Stephanie she is munched loved by all she meets. We are so glad to call you are friend and so blessed to of had you in are lives
Bill & Karen Beebe says
I don’t think words can express the loss felt by Roby’s passing. Our time spent with him, Bonnie and the kids on vacation is so full of memories that I will hold on to forever. I wish we hadn’t loss so much time and could of spent more time together the past few years but will
alway have fond memories of the lake vacation and family events we attended. He was a
true friend and mentor.
Bonnie, you and Roby raised such a wonderful family and I know they will be there for you in this difficult time.
Frankie Brown says
I love you Uncle Roby, I know you and my dad are looking down at kelly and I being very proud of us and reaching our goals. We could not have done it without either one of you. I love your spirit and soul , as it is still very living and well. I Love your heart, Sense of Humor, and the list goes on. xoxoxoxox~~! 🙂 Your life on earth may have ended, but I dont know anyone with a legacy like yours that will last lifetimes.
Chris Lang says
I really only had one conversation with Roby only one month ago and it was very memorable. It was easy to tell that even though Roby was not out to impress anyone…he was an impressive guy. I am thankful to have that time with him.
My condolences to his family!
Skip Riley says
I have truly enjoyed knowing Roby. A great man.
Kathy Nelson Gregorich says
Expressing my deepest sympathy to Roby’s family but especially Karen and Ethel. May you be blessed with long time forgotten memories that will help heal the hole in your hearts and give you peace. I have very fond memories of Roby “back in the day”. May Roby be held in God’s loving arms.
Pollie (Yost) Evans says
Thoughts about what a pesty little brother he was for his sister Ethel when we were teens and he wasn’t quite! Rest In Peace little brother –
Jorgen Mads Clausen, Danfoss says
The news of Robert Swanson’s death brings much sadness – my sincere condolences to the family.
Roby and I had many great and fun times together in the past when he worked at Danfoss fluid power.
In honor of his memory
Kind regards
Jorgen Mads Clausen
Chairman of Danfoss
Teresa M. Zander (WF clintonville) says
Our thoughts and prayers are with family and friends due to Roby’s passing….He was a huge asset to Walker Forge and an all around great guy to talk with when we had opportunities to visit Milwaukee. He will be truly missed by all.
Rosemary Kosel and family says
Dear, dear Swanson family, I am so sorry to learn of Roby’s passing. You are all in my thoughts and prayers. I love you all.
Dave Perkins says
Bonnie,
I knew Robbie through work First his year’s at Danfloss and then his years at Walker Forge. We continued to keep in touch when Walker moved to the Third Ward. I will miss him and our talks about business.
May he rest in peace.
Phil Pascuzzi says
Sorry for your loss. Heaven has another motor head angel. I will not forget all the great times at Island Lake.
Dan Cornelius/Karen Cassiday says
I believe that Karen and I only met him once at Grace while leaving for the one of the mission trips, but once was enough to know what that twinkle in your eyes was really all about. We love you Bonnie, and are here anytime you need to talk, reminisce or just get a hug….
Loren Reit says
I worked with Roby at Dukes Fluid Power and Danfoss. He had a love for 55 & 57 Chevy’s. and yes Sheepdogs. A patriot, mentor and good friend. R.I.P. Roby.
Shelia Yatso Aho says
I am saddened to hear about Roby’s passing. I am so sorry Karen for losing your twin and to Ethel, who lost her best friend. Not many can say they were so close to their Sisters, but Roby was. May memories carry you thru this difficult time. My love to all!
Jim Miller says
I had the good fortune to have the chance to work with Roby as a banker for Walker Forge for a number of years. He had a great sense of humor, enjoyed a good laugh and often displayed his devilish smile. He also had a strong detector for separating fact from fluff- you could always get to the bottom line quickly with Roby. I will miss him- will offer a toast to a very good man!