Neil Swanson

Neil J. Swanson, 91, of Milan, IL, formerly of Joy, died Wednesday, December 30, 2020 at home.  Cremation has been accorded.  Private graveside services are Wednesday, January 6, 2021 in the Peniel Cemetery, rural Joy, Illinois.  Memorials may be left to Hope Creek Care Center Memory Unit or the American Cancer Society. Online condolences may be made at  www.fippingerfuneralhome.com.

He was born January 25, 1929 in Eliza, IL to Hilmar and Geraldine Shoppa Swanson. He graduated from Joy High School and married Betty J. Beard January 30, 1949 in Aledo, IL.  She died April 3, 2018.

He was a U.S. Army veteran serving in the Korean Conflict.

Neil was a farmer and later was employed as a salesman in the Petroleum Industry for 25 years.  In his semi-retirement years he drove trucks for Dellitt Trucking  and Mercer Ready Mix in Aledo.

He was a member of the Mercer County VFW Post 1571, the Eliza American Legion Post 1971, and the Joy Community Club.  Neil was a former councilman and mayor of Joy.  He enjoyed RVing, spending winters in Magnolia Springs, traveling and especially spending time with family.

He is survived by two daughters:  Shirley (Don) Miller of Lafayette, IN; Joan (Rick) Bargar of Taylor Ridge, IL; two sons: Steve (Madeline) Swanson of Alabaster, AL; Jon (Chris) Swanson of Viola, IL; 12 grandchildren; 24 great grandchildren; several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, wife Betty and a sister Joan Eckhardt