Eric “Swany” Swanson of Sterling passed away following an over seven year battle with lung cancer. He was born October 27th, 1960 in Morrison Illinois, the son of Palmer and Joanne(Davis) Swanson. 

   Following in the footsteps of his father, Eric was an accomplished professional Magician. He began doing magic shows as a teen, was the youngest magician to perform an inverted, hanging, straight jacket escape, performed live on the Jerry Lewis Labor Day Telethon, and even did a show for his base commander as an Airman in the United States Air force. 

   Eric amazed friends and family throughout his life. Eric was an avid gamer and could be found spending free time playing Battlefield with his friends from all over the world, and shared his love of video games with his children and grandchildren. 

   A life-long fan of the Bears, Eric could be found on Sundays in the “Dog House”, his homemade sports bar in the garage, sharing drinks and stories with friends and family while cheering on his Chicago Bears. 

    Eric was proceeded in death by his wife Tina (Snodgrass) Swanson, step-son Daniel Bertolozzi, Father and Mother. 

    Surviving relatives include: Son Conan Swanson of Sterling Illinois; Daughters Kayla (Jeremy) Swanson of East Moline Illinois; Natalie(Jacob) Hendricks of Sterling Illinois; Step-sons Jacob Bertolozzi of Ashton Illinois; Josh(Shaina) Bertolozzi of Dixon Illinois; Brother Mark (Yoli) Swanson of Wisconsin Rapids Wisconsin; Sister Sonya of Wisconsin Rapids Wisconsin; Nephews: Kyle, Blake and Alec, Nieces: Ryann and Taylor, Grandchildren: Gage, Weston, Weiland, Maddix, Korbin, Parker, Elliot, Jaxson, Jameson, Presley, Kohen, and Benjamin; and great granddaughter Evelynn.

    A celebration of life will be planned with close friends and family closer to Eric and Tina's Birthdays in October.