Photo: Washburn-McReavy Funeral Home
Joel Anthony Swanson Sr., a longtime radio executive and community leader, died unexpectedly of a heart attack on January 3. He was 77.
Swanson passed away after spending the day celebrating the holidays with his children and grandchildren. Known for his outgoing personality and leadership, he built a four-decade career in radio while remaining deeply involved in family, church, and civic life.
The oldest of eight children, Swanson grew up on a farm near Morris, Minnesota. After graduating high school, he joined the U.S. Marine Corps and later began a career in broadcasting that included leading turnarounds at radio stations in Thief River Falls, Detroit Lakes, and other communities across the region. He served as manager of KDLM in Detroit Lakes from 1996 to 2004.
Jeff Leighton of Leighton Media remembered Swanson as a passionate advocate for both radio and the community. Leighton said Swanson was “very passionate about radio and the community of Detroit Lakes. From being a leader at the Chamber to a leader in Rotary, Joel was always at the heart of community events.”
Beyond radio, Swanson was active in numerous civic and service organizations, including the Knights of Columbus, Rotary Club, and several local Chambers of Commerce. His commitment to service continued later in life, and at the time of his death he was working as the Parish Administrator at Guardian Angels Catholic Church in Chaska.
Family was central to Swanson’s life. He and his wife of 53 years, Donna, who died in December 2022, were known for their strong support of their children and grandchildren, attending sporting events, performances, and milestones whenever possible. The couple were also avid fans of Minnesota sports teams, including the Twins, Vikings, and Gophers.
Swanson is survived by his children Joel Swanson II, Wendy Swanson, Michael Swanson, Teresa Swanson, and Amanda Swanson, as well as 13 grandsons. He is also survived by five brothers and two sisters. He was preceded in death by his wife Donna and his parents, Douglas and Edell Swanson.
A celebration of life will be held Saturday, Jan. 17, at 10:30 a.m. at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in New Brighton. An open-casket viewing will begin at 9 a.m., with a reception to follow in the church hall.