Anton Swanson

Anton “Tony” Lee Swanson, 83, of Beresford, South Dakota, passed away peacefully on May 15, 2026, at Bethesda of Beresford.

Born on December 19, 1942, to Thure and Tilly Swanson, Tony grew up in Beresford, where he developed the quiet resilience and steady optimism that would define his life. After earning his GED, he chose a path of service and adventure, joining the United States Navy.

Tony proudly served as an Engineman from 1966 to 1981, embracing every day at sea as a new journey. He traveled the world, forged lifelong friendships, and carried himself with humility and courage. During his service in Vietnam, he was wounded in action and received the Purple Heart for his bravery. He never boasted about it—he simply believed God had given him a second chance, and he lived with gratitude for that gift.

After retiring from the Navy in 1981, Tony spent several years in Texas working a variety of jobs while staying close to family. Eventually, he settled in Siloam Springs, Arkansas, where he found his long-term home and worked alongside his brother‑in‑law, Nels, at the family car wash business.

Tony had a deep appreciation for life’s simple joys. He loved playing pool and cards, watching movies—especially classic Westerns starring John Wayne—and cheering on his favorite baseball teams. In his later years, music became a source of comfort and happiness.

In 2009, Tony returned to his hometown of Beresford, where he was diagnosed with vascular dementia. Surrounded by family, he faced each day with the same optimism and determination that had carried him through life. He never allowed the illness to define him. Instead, he continued to greet each morning with a smile, a grateful heart, and an unwavering spirit.

Tony’s kindness, humility, and big-hearted nature touched everyone who knew him. He was profoundly thankful for the love and support of his family and caregivers, and his gentle presence will be deeply missed.

His smile, his stories, and his steadfast heart will remain with all who loved him—an enduring reminder of a life lived with courage, gratitude, and grace.

He is survived by his sisters, Beverly Edblom and Patricia Messler of Beresford; sisters-in-law, Darlyne Swanson of Beresford and Dorothy Swanson of Indiana. He was preceded in death by his parents, his sister, Marilyn Carlson; brother-in-law and close friend, Nelse Carlson; brothers-in-law, John Edblom and Ralph Messler; his brothers, Charlie, Turk, and Jimmy and an infant brother.

Funeral services will be 1PM Friday at Wass Funeral Home in Beresford. Burial with military honors will follow at Emmanuel Lutheran Cemetery.