David William Swanson

David William Swanson, 95, of Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida, passed away at home surrounded by his family on September 28, 2026.

Dave was born on November 26, 1930, in Minneapolis, Minnesota, to Frances and Quentin Swanson. An only child, he enjoyed an active and idyllic childhood, spending countless days with his pony, riding his bike, and playing with his dog. Summers at his family’s lake cabin in Nisswa, Minnesota provided him with lifelong cherished memories.

Dave graduated from Iowa State University with a degree in industrial engineering and went on to spend 34 years in sales with Alcoa. Dave achieved the status of Master Mason in 1957. He also proudly served in the US Army from 1954 to 1956.

Dave met his wife of 67 years, Joan Freeberg, in Minneapolis. Over the course of his career, they lived in Minneapolis, Richmond, Tampa, and Atlanta before eventually retiring to Ponte Vedra Beach, where they enjoyed many happy years together. In Ponte Vedra, Dave was an active member of Palms Presbyterian Church. He served as President of the Ponte Vedra Community Association in 2004 and received the “Good Guy” Award in 2008. He was an advisor to the Planning Division of the Ponte Vedra Municipal Service District. Dave and Joan also spent time at their second home on Lake Burton in Georgia.

Dave is survived by his wife, Joan; his daughter, Kimberly Johnson (Conrad), daughter, Melissa Callaway (Mike), and sons, Jeffrey and Jamie. He was also a proud grandfather to Katherine, Michael Jr., Anna, Ben, and Kristina, and a great-grandfather to three.

An enthusiastic skier, tennis player, and sailor, Dave lived a long and joyful life. He was a wonderful friend and a role model to his family, known for his integrity, his attention to detail, and his love of storytelling. Although he will be deeply missed, his life was well lived and full of love.

A memorial service will be held on October 16th at Palms Presbyterian Church 3410 S. Third Street in Jacksonville Beach at 11:00 a.m., followed by a reception.

In lieu of flowers those wishing to honor David’s memory may consider making a donation to Community Hospice, Jacksonville, whose compassionate care and support meant so much to our family.