Karen J. Swanson

Karen J. Swanson – loving mother, grandmother, partner and sister – passed away at the age of 72. Karen was born on September 7, 1950, in Chicago, Illinois to Carmela and Ralph Wakerly. She graduated from Harold L. Richards High School in Oak Lawn, Illinois in 1968 and two years later she married Andrew Swanson. Early in life, Karen was a homemaker, devoted mother, and dominant force. She raised her two sons, Erik (1975) and Scott (1978) and both of her boys successfully exited the house (permanently) by age 18. Karen became a home loan officer in Florida until she moved back “home” to Chicago to be near her aging parents in 2003. In late 2006, Karen met Ron Hadsall, her loving partner of almost 17 years, and the two have been inseparable ever since.

Karen was an incredible spirit. She was loyal, family-oriented, opinionated, and smart. She had an entrepreneurial spirit, even running small businesses where she sold her original crafts and bred yorkies. Ron and Karen loved road trips; they traveled all over the US to visit family and have adventures. Karen loved to shop for deals at thrift shops, dollar stores and used bookstores. Karen and Ron were known to stay up into the wee hours of the morning – listening to music and playing card games – just like teenagers. As a result, the couple was notorious for sleeping in until 10am! Ron’s love and devotion to Karen endured to her last day. He was and always will be Karen’s biggest supporter and Angel.

Karen is survived by her loving partner Ron Hadsall, her siblings (John Wakerly, Fran Daugherty, and Ralph Wakerly), her devoted sons and respective spouses (Erik & Tara Swanson, Scott & Cristina Swanson), her five beautiful grandchildren (Cole, Amelia, Lottie, Elle, and Savannah), as well as many additional family and friends.