In Loving Memory of Richard Park Swenson
April 13, 1932 – November 21, 2023
Newbury, VT – Richard Park Swenson, a pillar of strength and a beacon of love, peacefully departed this world on Tuesday, November 21, 2023, surrounded by his family at the White River Junction VA. Born in Winchester, MA on April 13, 1932, to Einard and Florence (Park) Swenson, Richard’s legacy is a tapestry of enduring love, unwavering commitment, and a life richly lived.
Dick is survived by his devoted wife of 70 years, Virginia (Hoglund) Swenson; his brother, Earl Wessel, and wife Eva of Capistrano Beach, California; his beloved children, Carl Swenson, Sr. and wife Seher of Palm Bay, FL, Robert Swenson and wife Melanie of Fairlee, VT, David Swenson and wife Elizabeth of Montpelier, VT, Karen (Swenson) Clements and husband Frederic of Newbury, VT and Allen Fuller and wife Virginia of Newbury, VT; along with 13 grandchildren and 22 great-grandchildren.
On November 28, 1953, Dick and Ginny embarked on a lifelong journey together in marriage. A proud Navy veteran, Dick served on the USS Salamonie. In 1954, he transitioned from Massachusetts to Newbury, VT, where he, alongside his father Einard Swenson, ran a successful dairy farm. The couple also ventured into entrepreneurship, establishing the Swenson Insurance Agency in 1960.
Deeply rooted in community service, Dick dedicated 65 years to the Newbury Fire Department and was an active member of the Newbury Congregational Church, contributing his time and talents to various committees. He was an active member of Charity Lodge #43 in Bradford. His commitment extended to many other civic organizations throughout the years.
A loving family man, Dick cherished moments spent with his children and grandchildren, attending their activities, be it sports, plays, or musical concerts. He had a passion for racing, boating, fishing, the Red Sox and restoring old Mustangs. His love for farming continued on through his sweet corn. He and his wife embraced travel, spending winters in Florida with their cherished camper.
A Graveside Service to celebrate Dick’s remarkable life will be held on May 11, 2024 at 10AM at Oxbow Cemetery in Newbury Vermont, In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Dick’s honor to either the Newbury Fire Department, Newbury, VT, or the Charity Lodge #43 in Bradford, Vt.
Arrangements are in the care of Hale Funeral Home, 187 Upper Plain in Bradford.