Donald Lee Swetnam

Donald Lee Swetnam was born February 26, 1936, to Orville and Alline (Carroll) Swetnam. On December 21, 2025, heaven welcomed Don home. He was 89 years old.

Don was a 1954 graduate of Rolla High School. He was co-owner of Rolla Welder’s Supply for many years, worked a variety of jobs after selling that business, and retired from Cantex. In his retirement, he found the job he enjoyed most, working part time for USA Express shuttling people to and from the St. Louis airport. He had many fun stories of his time there and met many wonderful people.

On October 6, 1957, Don married Connie Berwick, and they were blessed with two children. They celebrated their 68th wedding anniversary this past October, surrounded by family and friends.

Don was baptized and confirmed in the Lutheran faith and was a founding member of Redeemer Lutheran Church. He was a good and faithful servant. Don enjoyed his time serving the church both at Redeemer, then at Immanuel Lutheran Church as a trustee, an usher, and anywhere else he was needed. His faith was a strong, quiet faith, and even in his last months, he attended Bible study every Wednesday afternoon.

Don was most proud of his service with the Rolla Rural Fire Department. He volunteered for many years and held the title of Assistant Fire Chief. Other favorite activities of Don were being on his tractor, working in the hay fields, and using his chainsaw to cut down trees, stack firewood, and burn brush piles, all of which he did well into his 80’s with his farm buddies. Having lived in the same home for over 65 years, he was a cherished neighbor and is one of the last of the “old guard” on his county road. Don loved spending time with his family. He traveled from coast to coast to visit his children and granddaughters, and to attend NASCAR races around the country. He also took great joy in spending time with his great-grandson, watching him explore and grow. Words that friends use to describe Don include “salt of the earth, a good man, a wonderful neighbor, and someone who didn’t know a stranger”.

Don is survived by his wife, Connie; his two children Donna (Brian) Williamson, and Keith Swetnam; two granddaughters, Ashley (Tyler) Stratman, and Kaylynn Williamson; and great-grandson Simon Stratman. He is also survived by his sister, Bonnie Brown, as well as nieces, nephews, and many dear friends.

The family would like to express their deepest gratitude to the staff at Parkside Assisted Living for their loving care of Don these past several months.

A memorial service for Don will be held at 11:00 am on Saturday, January 3rd at Immanuel Lutheran Church. Visitation will precede beginning at 10:00 am. Memorials may be designated to Immanuel Lutheran Church.