Obituary of Rolf Holen Swensen

Rolf H. Swensen passed away peacefully on Saturday, March 22nd, in Darien, Connecticut. Rolf was a man of wide-ranging interests and deep intellect. He enjoyed hiking, camping, swimming, reading, gardening, and playing both the piano and the organ. A marvelous storyteller and conversationalist, he brought insight and warmth to every conversation. He swam three times a week and walked six miles a day, delighting in the outdoors and forming close bonds with neighbors—especially their dogs, whose names he knew and to whom he generously offered treats. Academically accomplished and passionate about history, Rolf earned a PhD in American Social History from the University of Oregon and a Master's degree in Library Science from Columbia University. He served as the National Archivist in New Guinea, was Acting Chief Librarian at Queens College, and taught graduate-level courses in Library and Information Science. He was published in numerous academic journals, and his forthcoming book, "And O'Er Earth's Troubled, Angry Sea: The History of Christian Science in the United States" is scheduled to be released by Routledge Publishers of London in May. Rolf was also a professional organist and a devoted fan of classical organ music. He loved collecting and listening to 78 RPM records from the 1920s, reflecting his appreciation for vintage sound and musical history. He was preceded in death by his brother Erik H. Swensen, father Joel Swensen, mother Clare Swensen, and aunt Mary Helmer. He is survived by his niece Rebecca Swensen Scotka, (Rebecca's husband Russell Scotka); his nephews Joel Swensen and David Swensen, (David's wife Chelsea Swensen): his great-nephews Erling and Otto Swensen; and great-nieces Elka and Inga Swensen. He also leaves behind his best friend Greg Right and many beloved neighbors and former colleagues. Rolf will be remembered for his generosity, brilliance, and enduring love of life and learning. His legacy will live on in the lives of those he touched and in the contributions he made to his field. A Celebration of Life service to honor Rolf will be held on May 21, 2025 at 11 a.m. at Noroton Presbyterian Church located at 2011 Post Road, in Darien CT, with a reception immediately thereafter in the Church facility. Memorial donations in Rolf's name may be sent to Queens College, 65-30 Kissena Boulevard, Kiely Hall - 9th Floor, Flushing, NY 11367. Checks should be made payable to "Queens College Foundation". Please note that the donation is for the "Rolf H. Swensen Memorial Library Fund.