Emily A. Swenson
Emily A. Swenson, age 85, of Brantwood, passed away on Monday, May 4, 2026, at her home, under the care of Harold and Hope Hospice & Palliative Care. Emily was born on Dec. 31, 1940, in Chicago, Ill., to the late Anton and Theresa (Obadal) Stratil. At the age of one, she moved with her family to Catawba, where she spent her childhood and attended grade school. She later graduated from Phillips High School and went on to live in Milwaukee, for two years. In 1972, Emily met the love of her life, Harold Swenson. The couple was united in marriage on Oct. 27, 1972, and shared 54 wonderful years together. Though they were not blessed with children due to health challenges, Emily and Harold shared their love generously with their four godchildren, Diane Phillips, Neil Raleigh, Danielle Lashua, and Jacob Bandura; as well as several nieces and nephews.
Emily was a hardworking and independent woman throughout her life. She held various positions over the years including working at Briggs & Stratton, driving school bus, working at a mink ranch, and later at Marquip. She also owned Emily’s Highway 8 Bar/Restaurant, where she built many lasting friendships. An avid outdoorswoman, Emily was especially proud of her skills as a hunter, successfully hunting
1940-2026
deer, bear, turkey, and partridge. She found great joy in the outdoors through camping and fishing. Emily also enjoyed bowling, shooting pool, playing softball, and playing dice. Affectionately known as “Auntie Em” by those who loved her, Emily had a warm and lively spirit. She took great pride in her home and hobbies, especially her rose garden and vegetable garden. She was well known for her homemade garlic dill pickles and also grew grapes, raspberries, and strawberries, and raised over 100 rabbits for meat over the years. A unique collector, she had a fondness for owls with a collection of over 100.
Survivors include her husband, Harold “Swen” Swenson; her brother, Tony (Shirley) Stratil; her sister, Rosemary Raleigh; her sister-in-law, Genny Stratil; her nephews, Dan (Lori) Stratil, David Stratil, Neil (Karla) Raleigh, and Dale (Kim) Stratil; and her nieces, Nancy (Jim) Otto, Diane (Todd) Phillips, and Jane (Kevin) Odberg.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Anton and Theresa; her in-laws, Juel and Ruth Swenson; her brother, Stanley Stratil; and her brother-in-law, David Raleigh.
A memorial service will be held on Tuesday, May 12, 2026, at Generations Funeral Home, at 11 a.m. Father Lourdu Raju is officiating. The family will receive friends for visitation from 9 a.m. until the time of services at 11 a.m.
Generations Funeral Home & Crematory is assisting the family. You may view Emily’s obituary and leave online condolences at generationsfuneral.com.
Paid Obituary 183477
