JoAnn Sue Swanson

JoAnn S. Swanson, 85, of Keokuk, Iowa, passed away Friday, September 4, 2026, at her home.

She was born January 14, 1941, in Keokuk, Iowa, the daughter of Carl Francis and Maree Iola Boyd Buerklin. JoAnn graduated from Keokuk High School.

JoAnn was united in marriage to Fred Park. They later divorced. On November 13, 1970, she was united in marriage to George A. Swanson in Quincy, Illinois. He preceded her in death on September 25, 1997.

JoAnn began her working career at Larye School of Dance then Sheller Globe. When Kmart opened in Keokuk, she began working there and remained with the company for twenty years. She later returned to Sheller Globe, which became Henniges, where she continued working until her retirement in 2005.

She was a member of Ironworkers Local 444.

JoAnn enjoyed staying active and was an avid bowler for many years, participating in several leagues. She had a special love for animals and especially enjoyed caring for the wild birds around her home. She also had a soft spot for her neighbor’s dogs, whom she happily spoiled on a regular basis.

JoAnn is survived by her nephew, James Buerklin (Kimberly), great-niece, Grace Buerklin, all of Keokuk; great-niece, Sujata Buerklin, her twin daughters, Aspen and Saylor, all of Fairfield, Iowa and her Goddaughters, Raeann Salter and Resa Lovan.

In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents and her brother and sister-in-law, Gene and Carole Buerklin.

A gathering of remembrance will be held from 10 a.m.-12 p.m., Saturday, September 12 at Vigen Memorial Home in Keokuk, IA with the family meeting with friends at that time.

Memorials may be made to the Jackson Township Fire Department.