Carol Mildred Swanson

Carol S. Swanson

Age 90 of Stillwater

Passed away peacefully on June 28, 2026.

Carol is preceded in death by her husband, Raymond "Doc"; grandson, Ryan.

She is survived by her children, Barb (John) Loescher, Tom "Tawny" Swanson, Bob "Caveman" (TJ) Swanson, Betsy (Don) Vance, Kate (John) Schmitt, and Peggy (Warren) Walsh; many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Carol grew up in North Minneapolis, with parents Gil and Elinore Streed, siblings Mike, Jack and Mary. After graduating from North High, Carol attended Winona State. That is where she met her husband, Ray Swanson, and his two Irish Setters, Mike and Goofy. It was love at first sight, for Carol, Ray and the dogs.

Carol and Ray then settled in Stillwater, Minnesota, where they established a small family farm, raising cows, sheep, chickens, more dogs and six children. Carol and Ray also established a business, Oakwood Animal Hospital, where they cared for beloved pets large and small.

Carol was also active with a number of local organizations and causes. As a volunteer with Como Zoo, Carol was named Volunteer of the year and assisted with the Annual Zoo Boo, an event loved by her grandchildren. She was active in the Washington County Agricultural Society and assisted in managing the show office for many years for the Washington County Fair. She was also active with Washington County 4-H, The Irish Setter Club of Minnesota and their local episcopalian parish.

Carol was an active crafter, sewing, knitting and crocheting. She also was an avid reader and brought the love of books to all her children and grandchildren. Going to the library was always a favorite outing with Grandma Carol.

Carol supported a number of causes that aided children, those in need and animals. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to a charity of your choice, reflecting Carol's love for God's creatures great and small.

Memorial Remembrance Saturday, August 8th at Bradshaw, 2800 Curve Crest Blvd., Stillwater. Visitation at 10am. Prayer Service at 11am.