Lisa Swanson

Lisa Plank Swanson entered her heavenly home on February 2, 2026; she died at Fairview Ridges Hospital in Burnsville, Minn., after a serious illness.

Lisa was born on September 5, 1962, in Rochester, Minn., to Duane and Norma (Sorenson) Plank. She lived in Rochester until the family moved to Winona in 1971. She attended and graduated from Winona Senior High School. She continued her education, graduating with honors from Winona State University and St. Theresa College with degrees in elementary education and Spanish. She received her master’s degree at St. Mary’s University of Winona/Minneapolis. She also studied at the University of Mexico-Mexico City, where she immersed herself in the Mexican culture. She began her teaching career at Rosemount Middle School in Rosemount, Minn., and taught there for 35 years before retiring. She was a beloved Spanish teacher, touching so many students’ lives. It was also here that she met her husband, William Swanson. Together, they traveled the world, experiencing many different cultures. Lisa cherished her beloved cats, Joslee Ana and Mr. Finn. Lisa loved to bake, and family and friends looked forward to her special treats, including her incredibly delicious cookies at Christmas. She also enjoyed being outside in her and William’s beautiful flower gardens. Lisa cared deeply for others and, in her career and travels, influenced and touched many with her nurturing presence and kindness.

She is survived by her husband, William; mother, Norma (Sorenson) Plank; sisters, Lori (Michael) Meurer and Janel Schneider; and brother, Dale Plank; as well as her brothers-in-law, nieces, nephews, and many other special and dear family and friends.

She was preceded in death by an infant brother, Kevin Plank; father, Duane Plank; in-laws, Russell and Marilyn Swanson; and sister in-law, Barbara (Swanson) Engel.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to Peruvian Hearts. 

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, February 21, 2026, at Hoff Celebration of Life Center (3480 Service Dr. Winona, MN) at 2pm with visitation beginning at 1pm. 

Hoff Celebration of Life Center is assisting the family.