Berniece Swanson

Evelyn "Berniece" Swanson, 92, passed away on April 6, 2026 at Cass Health Hospital, in Atlantic, IA. She was born December 10, 1933, in Wapello County, Iowa, to Garlon and Olive (O'Haver) Ruby.

The family moved to Otley, IA, where a brother (David) and sister (Donna Jensen) were born. Berniece attended school in Otley through 8th grade and graduated from Pella High School in 1952. She continued her education at Simpson College, where her roommate introduced her to her future husband, Keith Swanson. They were married in 1954 after Keith had graduated from Simpson. The couple moved to Iowa City, where Keith went to medical school and Berniece finished her college education. She received her teachers certificate and taught 3d and 5t grade at schools near lowa City. During the summer months, Berniece supported Keith with part time jobs. Upon Keith's graduation from medical school, the couple moved to Des Moines. Keith did his internship at Broadlawns Hospital and they were finally able to start their family. Laura was born in 1958. In 1959 the Swanson's moved to Hull, IA, where Dr. Swanson opened his first medical practice. While there, they added to their family. Eric was born in 1960, Jeffrey in1961, Shelley in1963, and Scott in 1964. Shortly after Scott was born, they moved to Waukee, IA and Dr. Swanson started a surgical residency at Methodist Hospital. The residency lasted 4 years, after which, they moved to Atlantic, IA, where Doc set up a private practice in general surgery, and general medicine.

Berniece was a homemaker and mother to her 5 children. She supervised schoolwork and piano practice. She chauffeured the kids to multiple athletic practices, musical events, and clubs. Being a mother and wife was a full-time job. In whatever town she was in, Berniece was involved in Bridge Club, Book Club, and later in life, Lion's Club. Berniece was a life long learner. She painted, learned French, played the piano and violin, sang, and was an avid tennis player.

Her true passion was travel. She and Keith traveled the world. They visited every continent, except Africa and Antarctica. At age 70, Berniece fearlessly traveled to Peru and climbed Machu Pichu by herself. She loved jumping in the car with her mother and sister, driving around the US looking at tombstones, houses, and colorful leaves in the fall. Berniece became involved with genealogy, focusing on her side of the family. She corresponded with many cousins for information. She traveled around the country visiting court houses and cemeteries to find additional family information. In 1997 she studied GeoDome homes, created a design, found land, and had her dream home built. She remained in the house until her death. In the early 2000's, Dr. Swanson reopened his office and became the "Donation Only Doc". Berniece was frequently seen manning the front desk. In 2018 they closed the office for good and enjoyed their retirement. Their retirement was spent sitting on their deck, watching the world go by.

Berniece was mother to Laura (David) Wright, Eric (Virginia), Jeffery (Linda), Shelley (Anastasios) Velman, and Scott (Pam). She enjoyed her 7 grandkids and 4 great grandchildren.

Being an independent spirit, Berniece did not want a service. A private burial will be held by the family in the future at the Wiota Cemetery. The family asks for no gifts or flowers. Your thoughts are appreciated.