Brenna Swanson

Brenna Elizabeth Grace Swanson was born November 25th, 1984, in Saint Paul, MN. When Brenna was four, she and her family moved to Alexandria, MN, where she later graduated from Jefferson Senior High. Brenna has lived in many places all over Minnesota and made friends wherever she went. While living in Barnesville, MN, Brenna met the love of her life, Brenton Melzer. In 2015, Brenna and Brenton made their home in Alexandria. The next year, Brenna was blessed with the second love of her life, her son Briggs Edward.

Brenna was an independent spirit and could handle just about any problem with grace under pressure. Empathetic, witty, and determined, she was unapologetically herself. Brenna was a versatile and dedicated employee whether she was selling tractor parts or managing a store. She was just as comfortable in her high heels as she was in her work boots. Her big heart, sense of humor, and beautiful smile were easy to love. She was a devoted mother, friend, sister, and daughter. If you were lucky enough to know her, you were truly blessed.

Brenna was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes at age 29. She managed her diagnosis like a boss, but on August 15th, 2020, her disease took a sudden turn and our strong and beloved Brenna passed away at age 35.

Brenna was preceded in death by her cherished grandpa Chester “Skip” Swanson, grandpa Gene Smith, and close cousin Linda Ziniel.

She is survived by her partner in life Brenton, her son Briggs, her mom (or as Brenna would say ‘Maaaa’) Lisa Swanson, dad (or as Brenna would say ‘Yeddie’) Ed Smith, siblings Aimee Thomas (Ryan), Jake Smith and Holly Smith, nephew Logan Thomas, niece Izzie Thomas, goddaughter Destiny Dukart, beloved grandma Janet “Mickey” Swanson, grandparents Chuck and Mary Johnson and many aunts, uncles, cousins and friends.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, August 20th from 4-8 pm at the Anderson Funeral Home. On Friday, August 21st, visitation will continue from 10-11 am with funeral service at 11:00 a.m. at the Anderson Funeral Home. Interment will be held at Evergreen Cemetery following the service.

Service will be lived streamed for those who are unable to attend.    Memorials are preferred to Brenna's Fund through Helping Hands at Vantage Bank you can Venmo: @Helping-Hands-6 or PayPal: helpinghandsalexandria@gmail.com