Paula Denise Swanson passed away on September 6, 2025, at her home in Hot Springs, South Dakota, surrounded by loved ones after a battle with cancer. She was 61 years old.

Born on November 13, 1963, in Kingsville, Texas, Denise was a loving mother, daughter, spouse, and friend. She had a warm heart and offered endless support to those she cared for.

Coming from a "city" upbringing in Longmont, CO, Denise adapted to farm life, learning how to drive tractors, irrigate crops, and raise livestock. Her ability and willingness to dive into a different world was exemplified again in Holyoke, Colorado, when her sons chose to play sports and show cattle, often taking the family across Colorado and Nebraska to their games and county fairs. She was an essential part of teaching her sons hard work, compassion, discipline, and right from wrong.

Later in life, she moved to Hot Springs with Joe, her partner for the past 16 years. She loved her beautiful home along the river, the chickens they raised, their dog Abby May, and going camping in the mountains. She made their property feel like home to anyone who visited and loved hosting and spoiling her two young granddaughters.

She was looking forward to Evan's upcoming wedding next summer and will be there with him in spirit.

She is survived by her parents Philip and Irene Gray, her partner Joe Lechman, her two sons Tyler and Evan Swanson, grandchildren Maren and Eyla Swanson, Joseph, Jasmine, Trista, and Jesse Lechman, and numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins – all who will forever cherish her memory.

Denise requested to not have a service or memorial.