Joy Ann Swanson

Joy Ann Swanson, 82, of Blue Earth, Minnesota, passed away peacefully in hospice care on September 8, 2026.

Joy was a strong and independent woman. She received a heart transplant in 1992 and survived 34 years beyond, far surpassing any projections made at the time by her transplant team. She worked as a registered nurse at the Fairmont Medical Center and previously in nursing homes in Blue Earth and Fairmont. She also served for many years as an Emergency Medical Technician in Blue Earth. She was born in Ironwood in Michigan's Upper Peninsula and always identified as a "Yooper" and a "stubborn Finlander." She cared deeply for animals and had many faithful companions over the years.

Joy is survived by her children and their families:

Son Christopher Richter - grandson Sam and granddaughter Libby

Son Erich Richter - granddaughter Hannah and great-granddaughter Sabrina

Daughter Gretchen Teich (Richter) - granddaughter Sylvi and grandson Charlie

Joy was preceded in death by her parents, Lillian Swanson (Helgren) and Glenn Swanson of Ironwood, Michigan.

In lieu of card or flowers, donations can be made in Joy's name to the American Heart Association.