Vincent Martin Swanson

Vincent Martin Swanson, 72 passed away peacefully on May 29, 2025, in Mason City, Iowa, surrounded with love and his family by his side.

Vincent was born on March 14, 1953, in Des Moines, Iowa, to Paul E. and Dorothy L. (Dreyer) Swanson. He was the oldest of three siblings, growing up alongside his brother Craig Swanson and sister Lori Swanson. He graduated from East High School in 1971.

His children and grandchildren were the light of his life, and he treasured every moment spent with them.

A man of many talents and strong work ethic, Vincent never shied away from a challenge. He held numerous job titles throughout his life and was especially proud of his time as a member of Local 45 Sheet Metal Workers Union. He worked on some of the tallest buildings in the area, and after retirement, he loved pointing them out during scenic drives. He also worked as a pizza maker at La Pizza House and as a welder. Over the years, he earned multiple certifications from Trade School, Vatterott College, and DMACC.

Vincent had a deep love for learning and was always curious. He enjoyed reading, researching, and studying a wide variety of subjects. He frequented the Des Moines Public Library and loved sharing knowledge with others. A true "tinkerer," he was always fixing or repurposing things.

In his younger years, Vincent enjoyed bowling and playing in softball leagues. In 1991, he participated in RAGBRAI, riding daily through rain or shine.  His love for cycling continued long after, as he regularly rode his bike around the neighborhood and beyond enjoying the freedom until he was no longer able to ride. He loved walking—pushing himself to go further each time—and could often be found playing catch with his grandkids, working out (self-proclaimed YouTube certified), or diving into books and research projects.

Vincent had a signature sweet tooth and could never resist chocolate, cookies, cake, or ice cream. He found humor in YouTube Shorts and enjoyed exploring the city he knew so well—long before Google Maps existed, he was the map. He could tell you just about anything about Des Moines and loved pointing out landmarks and sharing stories.

He was a jack of all trades, a loyal and honest man with a bright blue gaze, a mischievous sense of humor, and a deep love for his family. Known for picking playful arguments (“It’ll toughen you up”), he embraced life through simple pleasures—checking out books, snacking, working on the computer, watching favorite shows, and spending time with his loved ones.

Vincent is survived by his children: Jennifer (Steve) Nelson, Amanda (Ronnie) Hammond, and Matthew Swanson; 13 grandchildren; 8 great-grandchildren; siblings Craig (Carey) Swanson and Lori Swanson; and many nieces and nephews

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He was preceded in death by his parents, Paul E. and Dorothy L. Swanson, and his son, Ryan Paul Swanson.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Monday, June 9, 2025, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Sunset Memorial Chapel, 7601 Fleur Dr., Des Moines, IA 50321.

Vincent will be deeply missed, fondly remembered, and forever loved.