Paul R. Swanson, Ogden Dunes, IN, was called home by the Lord on July 18th, 2015. He was born in Moline IL, June 10th, 1928, to Herbert and Regina Swanson. Paul resided in Muskegon, MI for the majority of his early life. Upon graduating from Muskegon Senior High School he continued his academic pursuits, receiving a Bachelor of Arts degree from Augustana College. After thoughtful introspection he decided to pursue a career in theology, completing his seminary studies at Augustana Theological Seminary. After his ordination, Paul served several churches throughout the Midwest, eventually accepting a Chaplaincy position at Massachusetts General Hospital. He then pursued and obtained a Master of Sacred Theology Degree from Andover Newton Theological School; later Paul would receive a PhD in psychology, focused on pastoral care/counseling, from Boston University. While serving as Chaplain, as well as the Director of clinical pastoral education, at the famous hospital, he met his future wife, Cordelia K. Morrison. They would be married for 58 wonderful years. After completing his work at Mass. General, he accepted a position as the first full-time Professor of Pastoral Care at Augustana Lutheran Theological Seminary; this later became the Lutheran School of Theology, located in Chicago, IL. He would remain at LSTC until he retired in 1990. While at LSTC, Paul was instrumental in developing several graduate programs that remain to this day. In addition, during his tenure at LSTC, Paul would establish a marriage and family counseling center that remained active for over 25 years. The center was a training conduit for his graduate students and a therapy center for couples in need.
During the early years at Augustana Seminary Paul and Cordie began their family, first with son Jonathan Paul (born 1964) then daughter Rosanne Cordelia (born 1968). He was lovingly devoted to his family his entire life. Paul and Cordie would move one last time, to Ogden Dunes, IN, in 1967, which is where they raised their family and maintain their family home.
After retiring in 1990, Paul continued his pastoral work, becoming involved with various ministries and mission groups, both at home and abroad. His love of humankind, and desire that all could peacefully co-exist, would compel him to remain actively involved in these pursuits for many years.
Paul's interests throughout his life focused on sports (he was a semi-pro baseball player for 3 years), music (he was a first-chair clarinetist in high school and college), gardening, reading, and travel. He also enjoyed the companionship of their many pets throughout the years.
Visitation (10am) and funeral (11am) will be held Saturday, July 25th, at the Ogden Dunes Community Church, 116 Hillcrest Rd, Ogden Dunes. In lieu of flowers please send donations to the Paul Swanson Scholarship at Lutheran School of Theology.
Rees Funeral Home, Olson Chapel, 219-762-3013 in charge of arrangements.