John "Jack" R. Swanson, 71, of Coal Valley, formerly of Rockford passed away Sunday September 18, 2016 at his home.

Funeral services are 11am Friday September 23, 2016 at Salem Lutheran Church, 1629 S. 6th St., Rockford, IL, with visitation from 10am to service time. Additional visitation will be from 5:00-7:00pm Thursday at Wheelan-Pressly Funeral Home, 201 E. 4th Avenue, Milan. Burial will be in Arlington Cemetery, Rockford.

Mr. Swanson was born on October 9, 1944 in Rockford, the son of John and Frances (Larson) Swanson. He graduated from East High School, Rockford in 1962 and later from Wartburg College, Waverly, IA., in 1966. Jack married Marilyn Cauwels on January 30, 1971 in Rockford.

Mr. Swanson had been employed for 32 years at Auburn High School as a science teacher until his retirement in 1999. Previously he was employed at Rockton Middle School, Rockton, IL.

John was known for his quick wit and loved his family, especially his 3 grandchildren. He enjoyed gardening, woodworking, working in the yard and tinkering in the garage.

Survivors include his wife, Marilyn; son and daughter in law, Dr. John A. (Heather) Swanson, Sherrard; grandchildren, Cole, Kara and Kacie; sister, Kay (Steve) Schwandt, Rockford; brother, Brent (nancy) Swanson, Roscoe, IL; several nieces, nephews, cousins and in laws.

He was preceded in death by his son, Bradley Swanson; parents, John and Frances; and nephew, Adam Swanson.