Patty Ann Swenson

It is with deep sadness we announce the passing of Patty Ann Swenson, of Frederic, Wisconsin, on January 26, 2026.

Patty was the beloved wife of Rick Swenson, and the loving mother of Sarah (Robb) Jensen, Michael (Arin) Swenson, Angela Swenson, Jesse (Natalie) Swenson, Kelli Swenson, and Kyle (Jenny) Swenson. She was a devoted and endlessly proud grandmother to Abby, Aleah, and Ilie Jensen; Alivia, Lauryn, and Levi Swenson; Benjamin Swenson; and Lucy Swenson.

Patty grew up just outside of Frederic at her family's home on Birchwood Beach where being part of a big, loving family shaped her gentle spirit and the kindness she carried throughout her life.

At just 17 years old, on February 19, 1978, Patty married Rick. Throughout their nearly 48 years of marriage, they built a life centered on love, dedication, and family. Their bond only deepened with time, weathering every challenge and celebrating every joy side by side.

Shortly after marrying, they welcomed their first child on Christmas Eve of 1978, and over the next ten years their family grew to include five more children. As a young mother of six, Patty was nothing short of extraordinary. She made sure no one ever missed an event, practice, or visit with friends. Despite the chaos, she never complained. Patty created a home where her children felt loved, supported, and cared for. Somehow, she always managed to keep meals on the table, the house running smoothly, and laughter filling the rooms.

In 1996, Patty and Rick moved their family into town, certain it would make life easier with less driving. While the time spent shuttling kids certainly decreased, it was quickly replaced by a steady stream of visitors, as their home became the hub for family, friends, and neighbors. You never knew who might show up, but Patty was always ready with open arms and something delicious to offer. Whether it was a pot of wild rice soup, a fresh batch of Special K bars, or her famous sloppy joes, she had a way of making people feel welcome. More than anything, it was Patty's warm and loving nature that made everyone love being around her, and she had a unique gift for making every person feel cared for from the moment they walked through the door.

As her children grew up and began their own lives, Patty embraced a new chapter: becoming a grandmother. Her grandchildren were her greatest joy. The excitement in her voice and the light in her eyes whenever she talked about them showed just how much she loved being their grandma. She cherished every visit, every photo, and every story.

In recent years, Patty extended her love for her community by serving on the Frederic village board. She took immense pride in this role, always striving to make Frederic the best it could be. She loved watering the plants around town, helping kids at the ice-skating rink, and thoughtfully participating in making decisions she believed would benefit everyone.

Patty is survived by her mother, Irene Peterson; her siblings Tammy (Paul) Zarn, Wanda (Dana) DiMartinis, Wendy (Lydell) Larson, Mike Peterson, Dwight (Nancy) Peterson, Arlen Peterson, and Kathy Wilcox; and many cherished nieces, nephews, and cousins. She was preceded in death by her fathers Elmer Markwardt and Carol Peterson, father- and mother-in-law Harold and Jean Swenson, and sister Sue Larson.

More than anything, Patty will be remembered for her warmth, her deeply loving heart, and the way she made every person feel like family. Her love and kindness will continue to live on in every life she touched.

A service will be held from 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., following visitation and gathering from 10:00 a.m.- 10:30 a.m., followed by a celebration of Patty’s life on Monday, February 9, from 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Oak Forest Retreat Center, 2824 130th Street, Frederic, Wisconsin. All are welcome to attend and share in remembering Patty.

Arrangements were entrusted to Swedberg-Taylor Funeral Home. Condolences may be expressed online at swedberg-taylor.com.