Valerie Anita

Swanberg

IRONWOOD, Mich. – Valerie Anita (nee Orhn) Swanberg, 83, of Ironwood, was born on Oct. 16, 1943, in Grand Rapids, Minnesota, to Ruby and Harold Orhn, went home to the love of her life, Itsy Bitsy, on Tuesday, Nov. 10, 2026.

She was preceded in death by her parents; a nephew, Jason Asunto; and her oldest daughter, Michelle Wainio George.

Valerie is survived by two daughters, Stephanie Lewis and Tracy Swanberg; four grandchildren, James Wainio (Ana), Ashley Sterkeson (Garret), Alyssa Damgard (Kylee) and Kaley Lewis; a sister, Sue Asunto; and numerous great-grandchildren and nephews.

Valerie survived many things throughout her life and was a strong supporter of mental health. She served on many Gogebic County Community Mental Health Boards and brought happiness to others through her cooking, baking and candy-making.

At her request, cremation has taken place and there will be no service.

Valerie’s family would like to thank all the staff at Gogebic Medical Care Facility, where she spent the last few years of her life, and Jerald Rocco, owner of Lakeside Memorial Chapel Inc., in Wakefield, for all their amazing care and compassion during this time.