Virginia K. Swanson
Virginia Swanson, 88, of Aberdeen, SD, formerly of Claremont, SD, passed away on Sunday, February 15, 2026, at Bethesda Home of Aberdeen.
Virginia Kay Parkin was born on September 3, 1937, in Minot, ND, to Glenn and Marie (Petry) Parkin. The family moved to Claremont on July 5, 1945, where Virginia attended school and graduated from Claremont High School in 1955. She continued her education at St. Luke’s School of Nursing in Fargo, completing her clinical training at Cook County Hospital in Chicago. Virginia loved her work as a nurse, especially her years at the Britton Hospital.
On September 20, 1958, she married LaVerne Swanson in Claremont. Together they built a life of partnership and hard work while farming north of Claremont. She was an exceptional baker, well known for her caramel rolls, cookies, and pies. Christmas was her favorite time of year, and she cherished celebrating it with family and friends.
Virginia and LaVerne enjoyed square dancing and shared many hobbies, including sewing, quilting, and collecting dolls. They were adventurous travelers, visiting all 50 states as well as Korea and China, and they treasured the winters they spent together in Texas.
Her grandchildren and great-grandchildren were a source of immense joy. She was deeply proud of each of them and rarely missed an activity or event.
Virginia was a longtime member of Aldersgate Church in Aberdeen and the Claremont Legion Auxiliary.
Our family would like to extend our sincere gratitude to the wonderful staff at Bethesda Home of Aberdeen and Avera Hospice for the kind and compassionate care they provided.
Grateful for having shared her life are her husband, LaVerne Swanson; children: Kirk (Janelle) Swanson, Veronica (Dick) Paulson, and Vanessa (Tom) Albrecht; grandchildren: Shauna Swanson, Alex Swanson, Michael Swanson, Adam (Brittney) Paulson, Eric (Courtney) Paulson, Carter (Courtney) Paulson, Tyler (Brytany) Albrecht, Abby Albrecht, and Owen Albrecht; great-grandchildren: Sydney, Paul, Taige, Leo, Amelia, Jace, Jameson, and Joanie.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Glenn and Marie Parkin, and siblings Jim Parkin and Dorothy (Bob) Dubs.