Robert Eugene Swanson, 70, of Ottumwa, died January 23, 2026 at his home.
He was born May 20, 1955 in Ottumwa to Eugene Kenneth and Margaret Eloise Overturf Swanson. He married Diana Lynn Canny July 6, 1976.
A 1973 graduate of Ottumwa High School, Bob attended Ottumwa Heights and graduated with honors from Iowa State University in 1977 with a degree in horticulture and minor in landscape architecture. He had worked at Herman’s Gardens, Sunshine Nursery in Oskaloosa and at Wandell’s Nursery in Urbana, IL. Returning to Ottumwa, Bob was the City Superintendent for the city of Ottumwa cemeteries from 1982 – 2006. During that time he served as the President of the Iowa Cemeteries Association. He had worked for Ottumwa Schools as the Technical Director for the OHS drama productions and at the BP / Buckeye Terminal from where he retired.
Bob was a member of First Presbyterian Church where he had served on Sessions, as an Elder and in the choir. He enjoyed being involved with historical reenactments, organizing and helping lead the historical cemetery tours in Ottumwa, the Heiland Storm Celtic band as well as serving on the Historical Preservation Commission. He had been a member of Ottumwa Noon Kiwanis and for a short time, Rotary Club of Ottumwa. He was an Eagle Scout leader, District Commissioner, earning his Silver Beaver Award. Bob was a craftsman, woodworker, leathersmith and seamstress. He loved working in his garden and spending time with his dog.
Surviving is his wife, Diana; their daughter, Sarah (Stephen) Danielson of Cedar Rapids; a sister-in-law, Denise (Thom) Bahr of Kirksville, MO; along with several nephews and nieces.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his father-in-law and mother-in-law, John & Irma Canny and sister-in-law, Janice Canny.
His body has been cremated. Visitation with his family present to greet friends will be 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Thursday, January 29th at Reece Funeral Home.
A memorial service will be held at 1 p.m. Friday, January 30th at First Presbyterian Church with Rev. Nancy Cameron officiating. Inurnment will be in Ottumwa Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to First Presbyterian Church or Heartland Humane Society.
