Frances “Fran” Florence Swanson, aged 102, of Prescott, formerly of Hager City passed away on Thursday, Jan/ 11, 2024, at the Prescott Nursing and Rehabilitation. Fran was born on Feb. 4, 1921, in Farm Hill, Pierce County, the daughter of John and Mary (Nesseth) Laughnan. She was raised in Ellsworth, where she graduated from high school in the class of ‘39.
Shortly thereafter, she fell in love with a young gentleman, Emmett Swanson, and together they exchanged vows on Oct. 22, 1942, in Wabasha, Minn. They spent many years in Hager City, where they raised their three children: Mavis, Linda, and Kermit. Later, they moved to Prescott, where Fran continued to reside following Emmett’s passing in 2007.
Fran defined the role of homemaker, dedicating herself to raising her children, cooking family meals, and managing the household and farm. Over the years, she found time to work at Red Wing Industries on their production line and at Rocking Horse Pre School, where she enjoyed working with children. Tending to the farm and homestead resulted in flourishing vegetable gardens and abundant beds of raspberries and strawberries. She also took pleasure in her marigolds and hanging baskets that adorned their home. Fran loved the outdoors, and spending time at state park campgrounds created many fond memories, with Bayfield, Wis., and Yellowstone National Park being among her favorites. Fishing was a common part of their outdoor activities, with Fran skillfully preparing their catches for tasty meals. She and Emmett spent countless hours biking area nature trails, and she cherished quiet days at home, especially hosting family or neighbors for competitive games of hearts or euchre.
Fran enjoyed sharing her crocheted afghans, doilies and also her embroidered towels with others. The family also bonded over billiards at home, and Fran took great care to ensure the birds were well fed. However, her favorite pastime was having loved ones over for a home-cooked meal and serving her classic apple pie.
Frances will forever remain in the hearts of her children: Mavis Melstrom; Linda (Roger) Proch; Kermit (Karen) Swanson; grandchildren Kris (Howie Rossell) Sampson, David (Rob Myers) Melstrom, Bryan (Cassie Meis) Boreen, Aaron (Heather) Swanson; and great-grandchildren Bryce, Austin, Parker, Jack, and Amelia. She is preceded in death by her husband Emmett, son-in-law Gary Melstrom, and siblings Hazel (Louie) Cardell, Wilbur Laughnan, Sidney (Elaine) Laughnan, Charles Laughnan, Rochelle (Ray) Flynn, Bernice (Richard) Christiansen, Leo Laughnan, Elmer (Marge) Laughnan, and James Laughnan.
A Celebration of Life is being planned. Cremation and memorial services entrusted to the O’Connell Family Funeral Home of Prescott.
