Thomas M. Swadburg, 82, of Lutsen, Minnesota, died peacefully on Sunday, September 20, 2026.
A graduate of the University of Minnesota, Tom received a B.A. in political science. He built his career at Whirlpool Financial Corporation for 30 years. As V.P., he created several new divisions for Whirlpool. He also won numerous awards for being an outstanding contributor. Tom’s career took him to many cities over the years, including St. Paul, Minnesota, Kansas City, Kansas, Benton Harbor, Michigan, and Atlanta, Georgia. He and his wife, Rene’ Swadburg, retired to Lutsen, MN, in 2005 to his beloved cabin on Caribou Trail.
In his youth, he sang in his Church choir and played hockey. Tom learned to ski when he was 8 years old at Lutsen Ski Hill Mountain. Upon his retirement to Lutsen, he worked in Guest Registration for Eagle Ridge at Lutsen Ski Hill Mountain and was known to all as the grandfather of historical information. Tom was a serious fan and supporter of the MN Vikings Football team; he never missed a game. Tom also enjoyed snowmobiling, hiking, camping, reading, talk radio, music, trains, and traveling with his wife, Rene’. Over their 26 years together, they visited many family members, friends, and 14 National Parks. He always loved taking the back roads to enjoy the real parts of our country.
Tom was preceded in death by his mother, Harriett (Nickerson) Swadburg, his father, Milton A. Swadburg, and his two brothers, Jim Swadburg and wife Phyllis, and Don Swadburg and wife Sue. He is also preceded in death by his much-loved dogs, Reggie and Lundie.
He is survived by his wife, L. Rene’ (Bennett) Swadburg, his daughter Katie S. Ford (Kevin) and their children Ella and Ryan, his son Charlie T. Swadburg and Charlie’s son Soren Swadburg, and the mother of his children, Barb Swadburg-Kurle (Jim). His brother-in-law, Larry L. Bennett (Christina). He is also survived by many nieces and nephews and his two beloved puppies, Cooper and Tucker.
Tom was a very kind and gentle man with a big heart, as well as a quick, witty sense of humor. He was also known for telling stories by starting with “Get this.” He will be missed by family, friends, and all who knew him. Our thanks go to the very special people at North Shore Care Center, who became a part of our family and took such loving care of Tom. And to all who enjoyed his July 4th “artwork” that was done for a very special little girl named Emi.
Services for Tom will be held at Lutsen Lutheran Church on October 17, 2026 at 3:30 pm. Tom’s favorite desserts and coffee will be served after the service at the Church. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the National Kidney Foundation.
