Vernon Klein Swearingen

On July 19, 2021 Vernon Klein Swearingen, loving husband and father of three children passed away at age 89. Vernon was born on December 15, 1931 in Keithsburg, IL to Wilma and Klein Swearingen. He had four younger sisters; Janet (Hunter), Shirley (Henley), Sandra (Murdock) and Pam Swearingen. On September 23, 1955 he married Phyllis Wiklund of Rock Island, IL. Together they raised three children: Becki Swearingen (Vicky), Seattle, WA; John Swearingen (Susie) Aledo, IL: and Cathy Swearingen of Moline, IL. They had five grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.

After high school in Aledo, he joined his father and uncle in farming, and continued to be a proud farmer in the Aledo area the remainder of his life. Vernon was an active contributing member of local service clubs including Aledo Jaycees, Exchange Club and was life- long member of College Avenue Presbyterian Church.

His greatest passion however, was the Mercer County Fair. He was so proud to serve on the Fair Board and as Superintendent of Grounds for many years.

Vernon loved hosting family, friends and fishermen when they visited the farm to enjoy the lake he and Phyllis built.

Vernon was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Phyllis, grand daughter Shawna, and sister Sandra.

There will be a Memorial Service on Sunday, July 25 at 1:00 pm at the College Avenue Presbyterian Church. The family will be available at the church at 12:00 pm to receive friends. Memorials may be made to The Vernon Swearingen Memorial.