Orlin Swanson

Orlin Wayne Swanson, 82, died Thursday, November 13, 2025 with Hospice care at SMP Health – St. Catherine North, in Fargo, ND.

Orlin was born on September 15, 1943 in Grafton, ND, the son of Theodore and Ara (Stone) Swanson.

His family moved from Grafton to Grand Forks in 1946. He attended Washington Elementary School, and Valley Junior High School.

Orlin served in the U.S. Army from May 1962 – December 1964. While stationed in Korea, he completed his GED. He received an Honorable Discharge on December 1, 1964.

In 1968, Orlin attended Aakers Business College, completing the Junior Accountancy Program in August. He married Phyllis Baird and they moved to California, where they had two children, Robert and Tammie.

In 1977, Orlin worked at ND Job Service for several years. He and his wife then managed Memorial Cemetery North.

In 1985, Orlin worked for Jerry Cain Roofing. In 1988, he moved to Fargo and did siding for Western Products. He also worked as a construction foreman.

On February 13,1991, he married Marion Uglem. Marion passed away on 12/24/2016.

He was a member of the Masons and the Shriners. He enjoyed horses, camping, fishing, Motorcycles and being outdoors.

Orlin is survived by his two children: Robert Swanson of West Fargo, ND and Tammie (Brad) Pierce of Hatton, ND; Five grandchildren: Brenden Swanson of Henderson, NV;
Amanda Vingelen of Grand Forks, ND; Brett Pierce of Sabin, MN; Briannah (Nathan) Krump of Hankinson, ND, and Trevor Pierce (Alex Richards) of Fargo, ND; Four great grandchildren: Sophia Vingelen; Allyson Pierce; Madelynn and Jocelynn Krump.

Brother: Cal (Margaret) Swanson of Vancouver, WA, and many nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his first wife Phyllis; his second wife Marion; his parents; brothers Bobby, Ronnie, Denny, and Doug; and sisters Dorothy Gerstner, and Georgene Reinertson.

Per Orlin’s request, there will not be a funeral.