Roger T. Swanson

Roger T. Swanson, 85, passed away peacefully at home on June 28, 2026, surrounded by his loving family.

Born and raised in New Britain, Connecticut, Roger attended St. Joseph School before moving to Kensington. He dedicated 38 years of service to Stanley Works, retiring in 1997 after a career defined by hard work, integrity, and dedication. Roger was a man of many passions and endless curiosity. From a young age, he found peace in the outdoors. As a boy, he could often be found exploring the woods near his home, where neighborhood dogs would eagerly follow him on his adventures, earning him the affectionate comparison to the “Pied Piper.” His love of nature remained with him throughout his life. An avid outdoorsman, Roger enjoyed fishing, hunting, and many memorable catfishing trips with his dear friend Bob May. He was also a beekeeper, raised chickens and rabbits, and even had a beloved pet crow named Charlie. 

Roger was a proud member of the Connecticut Mycological Society, spending many Sunday mornings foraging for mushrooms alongside fellow enthusiasts while continuing to learn from the group’s experts. Later in life, Roger found his greatest companion in his beloved wife, Jackie. Together they shared a wonderful life filled with adventure and love. They enjoyed countless vacations together, especially cruises to the Caribbean, a memorable trip to Sicily, visits with family in Maine, and many road trips that created cherished memories. Roger was a devoted member of St. Luke’s Church and found his greatest joy in spending time with his family. He was known for his quick wit, gentle spirit, and kind heart. His warmth and patience made him an extraordinary grandfather and great-grandfather, and he treasured every moment spent with the youngest members of his family. Whether he was telling his famous “pull my finger” joke or singing “Beans, Beans, the Magical Fruit,” Roger always knew how to make his great-grandchildren laugh.

Roger was preceded in death by his parents, Elizabeth Talbot Swanson and Albert Swanson; and by his brothers, Richard Swanson and his wife May, and Russell Swanson and his wife Lois. He leaves behind his beloved wife, Jackie Swanson; his daughters, Cheryl Possum and her husband Bob, Beth Del Buono and her husband Andy, and Lisa Thistle and her partner, Lamor. He also leaves behind his cherished grandchildren, in order of age: Shanté Mack and her partner Chris, Dominick Spina and his wife Samantha, Rachele Rodgerson and her husband Ryan, Jenna Sola and her husband Anthony, and Elizabeth Charnish and her husband Nick. Roger was the proud great-grandfather of Kaison Buxton, Aria Woodie, Abree Woodie, Christiana Lonardo, Alanni Woodie, Dominick Spina, Andrew Spina, and Rose Charnish. He is also survived by his beloved sister-in-law, Janet Karam and her husband James, two brothers-in-law, Joseph Sgroi and James Sgroi,  four beloved nephews, one cherished niece, as well as many extended family members and dear friends whose lives were enriched by his kindness, generosity, and friendship.

Roger lived a beautiful, full life rooted in faith, family, hard work, and a deep appreciation for the natural world. Whether hiking through the woods, identifying trees and mushrooms, tending to his bees and animals, casting a fishing line, or simply enjoying time with those he loved most, Roger embraced every day with curiosity and gratitude. His legacy of integrity, humor, compassion, and unconditional love will continue to live on through the family and friends who were fortunate enough to know him.

A beautiful life, well lived. Rest in peace, Roger. Until we meet again.

Calling hours will be held from 5 - 7 p.m. on Wednesday, July 1, 2026 at the Plantsville Funeral Home, 975 S. Main St., Plantsville. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 9:00 a.m. on Thursday, July 2, 2026 at St. Dominic's Church, 1050 Flanders Rd., Southington. Please meet directly at church. Burial will follow in Oak Hill Cemetery, Southington. Plantsville Funeral Home has been entrusted with handling the arrangements.