Jo Swanson

Jo Swanson, 73, of Galesburg, died at 9:50 p.m. Tuesday, March 1, 2016 at home.

She was born August 15, 1942 in Galesburg, the daughter of Donald E. and Wilma E. (Goodale) Swanson.

She is survived by her brother, Jim Swanson and his wife, Judy, of Sugar Grove, Illinois; her sister, Jillie Swanson of Galesburg; and loving nephews and nieces, Ray Johnson and his wife, Linda, of Novi, Michigan, Greg Johnson of Lake in the Hills, Illinois, Jon Gilmour and his wife, Sherri, of Decatur, Illinois, Jim Gilmour and his wife, Sarah, of Alpha, Illinois, Ann Holiday and her husband, John, of Decatur, Illinois, and Elaine Pinta and her husband, Mike, of Cortland, Illinois; and several great nieces and nephews.  She was preceded in death by her parents and a sister, Jean Gilmour.

Jo worked at Hi-Lo in Abingdon for 44 years as a stock clerk in various departments.  She had a deep belief in God and his son, and lived by His grace and forgiveness.  Jo enjoyed bowling and woodworking.  She had a lifelong interest in Stearman airplanes.

The family would like to thank the Kisler brothers, Dick, Clyde, and Lyle, for treating Jo like a trusted friend.  Jo enjoyed the friendship of her co-workers and customers at the Hi-Lo in Abingdon.  We would also like to thank the Galesburg Central Fire Department Station for the many lift-assistant calls, with special thanks to Battalion Captains, Todd Peterson and Chip Timmons.  Thanks also to Chip for Jo’s special tour of the Stearman Fly-In.  The family extends deep gratitude to Dr. Robert Hickerson for caring for Jo throughout her life and to Hospice Compassus, with special thanks to nurses, Stacy and Kim.

Cremation will be accorded.  Visitation will be 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, March 30, 2016 at Hinchliff-Pearson-West Galesburg Chapel.  Graveside service will follow in East Linwood Cemetery at 11 a.m. with Rev. Glen Bocox officiating.  Memorial contributions in Jo’s name may be made to the Galesburg Rescue Mission or a charity of the donor’s choice.  Online condolences may be made at www.h-p-w.com.