Claudia Adel Swager

In Loving Memory of Claudia Adel Swager April 16, 1945 - November 19, 2023 Claudia Adel Swager, an extraordinary artist and art educator, passed away on November 19, 2023, in Hospice in Golden Valley after courageously surviving pancreatic cancer for almost ten years with strength, grace, and dignity. Claudia's life was a masterpiece of creativity, intellect, and compassion. Claudia was born in Warsaw, IN, to Ralph and Florence Sanderson. She grew up there and attended Warsaw High School. She then attended Indiana University, studying art and journalism, graduating with a BFA in 1967. While student teaching in Fort Wayne, she met and married Dick Swager in August of 1968. Their daughter, Sarah, was born in May of 1975, just a month before the family was transferred to the East Coast. After an eventful year there, Dick received an outstanding offer in Minneapolis, and the family came to Minnesota. It was an incredible change. The family loved growing up together in Minneapolis. Having earned her Master's degree in Art, her artistic prowess extended beyond the canvas; it was a part of her very being. Claudia's love for classical music also resonated, filling the room with notes that mirrored the beauty she found in every corner of life. For over three decades, Claudia lived her art, both in her studio and at the Walker Art Center, as a beloved tour guide. She founded the Tour Guide Council there. Her deep understanding of the pieces she shared and her ability to make art accessible left an indelible mark on the countless visitors who walked through the gallery doors. Her tours were not mere walks; they were symposiums of inspiration, guided by a woman who saw the world as a canvas waiting to be explored. Claudia's philanthropic endeavors were as extensive as her art knowledge. She dedicated herself to the family's philanthropy, leaving a legacy of generosity and compassion. Her commitment to positively impacting the world reflected the depth of her character and spirit, proving that true beauty extends beyond the surface. At the heart of Claudia's world was her family. Her husband, Dick, was not just a partner in life but a co-curator of their shared journey. Together, they created memories filled with laughter, love, and the occasional spilled coffee or glass of wine. Claudia's daughter, Sarah (Christopher), became an extension of her vibrant palette and enjoyed sharing Claudia's talents with her own friends. Claudia also invited nieces and nephews to "spend a week at the house," which became Camp Claudia over the years. Claudia had a love affair with books and coffee and savored quiet moments with a good read. Her home was a sanctuary of literature, art, and music, often with the aroma of freshly brewed coffee or a fabulous meal in the air. It was a haven where stories unfolded over shared food and beverage. Dick's job involved extensive travel throughout the US, Canada, and Europe. Claudia often went along. She thought of travel as renewing the soul. Claudia's brother, Sid Sanderson (Sharon), lives in the Denver area, while their son, Jon Sanderson (Heather), is in the Salt Lake City region, and their daughter, Kim Sanderson (Brandon), also lives in Colorado. The extended family is large and far-flung. As we say goodbye to Claudia, let's remember her as a curator of joy, an artist of the soul, and a philanthropist of the heart. Instead of flowers, the family suggests that you support someone or something that will make this world better, continuing Claudia's legacy of making the world more beautiful. May the stars above shine a little brighter now, adorned by the spirit of Claudia, a true connoisseur of life.

Tributes

Claudia Adel Swager

April 16, 1945 - November 19, 2023

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