Eunice Swiggum

Eunice Joanne (Johnson) Swiggum, age 92, passed away peacefully at home in April 2022, with family at her side in Roseville, Calif.

Eunice was born on May 7, 1929 to Gertrude M. (Kern) Johnson and Gilbert O. Johnson on the family farm between Norway and Atkins, Iowa. She was baptized at home on May 7, 1929 by Pastor Huseth and later confirmed at Benton Lutheran Church on April 18, 1943 by Pastor Elmer Valen.She attended the Norway and Atkins consolidated schools, graduating from Atkins High School in May, 1946. She briefly attended Luther College. Eunice was initially employed by the Iowa State Department of Social Welfare.

After moving to Decorah, Iowa in 1961, Eunice began her 33-year career in the Luther College Treasurer’s Office. Eunice was united in marriage to Buel M. Swiggum on May 16, 1948 at Benton Lutheran Church, Norway, IA. To this union were born three children: David (Myrna), Lois (Tom), Ruth (Gene –deceased), seven grandchildren and eight great grandchildren.

Preceded in death were her husband (Buel), parents, grandparents, sister and sister-in-law, brothers and brothers-in-law. Eunice is survived by a sister-in-law, nieces and nephews, relatives and friends.

Eunice was the last survivor of her immediate family. Her family (husband, children, grandchildren and great grandchildren) were her first love and concern. Eunice devoted her entire life to serve her Lord and to spread his Word to all. She was active in her church and served in the capacity of Sunday school teacher for four different congregations, Bethel class teacher and participant, taught bible classes and was a member of the choir. She wished to be remembered as a forgiven sinner. Blessed be her memory.

Eunice requested that in lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Lutheran World Relief or Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) World Hunger.

Celebration of Life service to be held in California on May 7, 2022. If you would like to view the live streamed service or watch it later, please contact Ruth Swiggum at RuthSRN@aol.com.