Elsiemae Swanson, 76, Rural Minot, died Tuesday, October 2, 2018 at her home surrounded by her loving family and hospice.

Elsiemae was born November 17, 1941 at Portal, North Dakota, the daughter of Fred and Elsie (Johnston) Peterson.   She was raised and educated in Portal.

She was united in marriage to Donald Austin.  From this union, a son Kevin and a daughter Karen were born. They traveled throughout much of North Dakota while he was employed in the oil industry.  They lived at Portal, Lignite and Kenmare.    For many years, she was employed at St. Josephs Hospital, UniMed and later with Trinity Medical Center as a CNA. Donald died in 1989.

Elsiemae was united in marriage to Duane Swanson on November 21, 1992 St Leo's Catholic Church, Minot.   They made their home Northeast of Minot.  She was a member of the Catholic Faith.

Her hobbies and interests included: raising miniature ponies, goats and donkeys.

Her loving family includes , husband, Duane; children, Karen Austin of Minot and Kevin Austin of Bismarck; 3 grandchildren to include: Kasey, Kylie, and Michelle; step-son, Kenneth Swanson, of Logan; 4 sisters.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, Donald and 2 brothers.

Private Family Graveside service: in Rosehill Memorial Park, Minot.
Public Visitation and Booksigning :   At her request, there will not be a viewing, however friends and family may sign a memorial register book on Friday, October 5 ^th from 3:00-5:00 p.m. in the Thomas Family Funeral Home, Minot.