Alan H. Swanson

Alan H. Swanson, JD, age 90, born in Chicago, Illinois on June 2, 1935, passed peacefully at his home on November 21, 2025. He is survived by his wife, Arline (nee Rusin), his son, Bradford (married to Melissa, nee Wells), and his daughter, Holly (married to William Erdman). He is also survived by four cherished grandchildren, Wesley Swanson and Riley, Ashlyn, and Chase Erdman.

Alan attended Steinmetz High School and received his Bachelor of Arts degree from Northwestern University in 1957. It was at Northwestern that he met his beloved wife, Arline. He went on to pursue Post-Graduate Studies at the University of Chicago in 1958 and received his Juris Doctor Degree from Northwestern University Law School in 1961. In 1964, he joined the law firm of Kirkland & Ellis in Chicago and became a partner in 1971. He later joined the law firm of Hinshaw & Culbertson in 1975 and became a partner there in December 1975.

His trial practice concentrated in the defense of construction accident and product liability lawsuits involving personal injury, wrongful death, and property damage. During his career, he tried numerous bench and jury trials in the state and federal courts in Illinois. He also handled appeals in the Illinois Supreme and Appellate Courts as well as the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit.

Alan was known for his honesty, generosity, and gregariousness. He cared deeply for his family and always put others ahead of himself. He loved God, and he loved people. Alan enjoyed throwing parties, showing family films, traveling across the country, boating on Lake Geneva, attending summer car shows, riding roller coasters at amusement parks, volunteering at Willow Creek Church and walking his dogs in the nearby woods. He was always available to lend a helping hand. His favorite terms of endearment were “How’s it going, Guy?” and “Hang in there, Kiddo” and “Keep on Smiling.” He loved singing the song, “You are My Sunshine.” Alan will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all those who knew him.

A visitation will be held on Friday, November 28, from 3pm – 6pm at Davenport Family Funeral Home, 149 W. Main Street, Barrington, IL 60010. A Memorial Service will take place on Saturday, November 29, beginning at 10 a.m., again at Davenport Family Funeral Home in Barrington. Inurnment to follow at Evergreen Cemetery, 610 S. Dundee Ave., Barrington, IL 60010.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to The Humane Farming Association or Lutheran Social Services of Illinois.

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