Darreth Ann Swenson

DARRETH ANN SWENSON, age 82 of Waseca, passed away on the evening of Thursday, January 8, 2026, at Lakeshore Rehabilitation Center. While her passing leaves a quiet spot where her laughter once lived, those who knew Darreth know she would much rather be remembered with smiles than solemn faces.

Darreth was born March 19, 1943, in Faribault to Clayton and Marcella Condon. She was raised by her beloved aunt and uncle, Sarah “Sadie” and Ralph Henry, who helped shape the strong, spirited woman so many came to love. She graduated from New Prague High School and then jumped into life enthusiastically. In 1962, she married Dallas Swenson and they built their family. Over the years, she wore many hats: dental technician, cashier at Stuckey’s, Avon representative, and Customer Service Manager at Walmart. Later, she followed her creative heart, studying horticulture through the University Extension in Waseca and landing what became one of her favorite roles—as a florist at Hy-Vee Floral. Flowers suited her well; she had an eye for beauty, color, and just the right finishing touch. She enjoyed creating beautiful arrangements and was proud of the work she did at the floral shop. Darreth loved crafts and artistic hobbies as well as cheering on her beloved Minnesota Vikings or Twins. In earlier years, she could also be found on the softball field or at the bowling alley, faithfully attending her Monday mixed league and Wednesday ladies league. When her family was young, she enjoyed spending time outdoors camping and snowmobiling. She loved tending to all of the flowers she planted in her yards over the years and always had at least two bird feeders. In her later years at Lakeshore, Darreth became a bright spot for residents and staff alike—quick with a joke, a sharp comment, or a smile that made the day a little better. Funny, feisty, and full of personality, she had a way of making people feel entertained and at ease.

Darreth is survived by her three children: Mark (Karen) Swenson of Mankato, Dennis (Kris) Swenson of Homer Glen, Illinois, and Tara (Chad) Bjerke of Waseca; ten grandchildren who brought her endless pride and joy; and three siblings—her twin brother Dennis Henry of St. Cloud, Dick Condon of Arkansas, and Kevin Condon of Illinois. She was preceded in death by her biological parents; her aunt and uncle who raised her; and her former husband.

Darreth will be remembered for her creativity, her humor, her stubborn independence, and the spark she brought into every room she entered. The world is a little less lively without her—but far brighter for having had her in it.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Tuesday, January 20, 2026 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Waseca, with Father Glenn Frerichs officiating. Visitation will be held for one hour before the Mass at the church. A private family interment will take place at Calvary Cemetery in Faribault in the spring.