Constance E. Norman Swenson — Rochester

Constance "Connie" Elizabeth Norman Swenson, 94, of Rochester, passed away peacefully with family surrounding her on Saturday, Jan. 31, 2015.

She was born to Marion Edward and Myrtle Christensen Norman on Aug. 7, 1920, in Minneapolis and was the eldest of seven children. She graduated from North High School in Minneapolis and went on to study art at the Minneapolis School of Art and Design, the University of Minnesota, Gustavus Adolphus College, Rochester Art Center and the Grand Marais Art Colony. Connie continued her art education at the Light House Gallery and School of Art in Tequesta, Fla. She displayed her acrylic, oil and watercolor paintings and sculptures all over the country. On April 2, 1943, she married her high school sweetheart, the late Dr. Wendell Swenson with whom she shared over 50 years of marriage.

In addition to her great love for art, Connie enjoyed experiencing and preserving Scandinavian Heritage, as she was a second generation Swedish-American. She also loved to write poetry, listen to classical music and always had beautiful gardens. Connie loved spending time with family and friends, especially at the numerous grand events she would carefully plan. She was a very devoted sister, wife, mother, grandmother and nana. Connie taught us to appreciate faith, family, traditions and the arts. 



She is survived by her three sons, Wendell Norman (Jane), of White Bear Lake, Rev. David E. (Jeanne), of St. Petersburg, Fla., and Dr. Stephen S. (Mary), of Sartell; seven grandchildren, Carrie (Chris) Montgomery, Amy (Kris) Magnusson, Joshua (Jill) Swenson, Aaron (Tricia) Swenson, Samuel Swenson, Sarah (Matthew) Tornow and Rebecca Swenson; 11 great-grandchildren; a sister, Lois Myers; and brother-in-law, Robert Oemcke.

Connie's family would like to thank the Supportive Care Department at the Charter House for the very special care they gave over the years.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are appreciated to the Swenson Heritage Fund at Gustavus Adolphus College in St. Peter.

A celebration of Connie's life will be held in May.

Klein Funeral Home, St. Peter.