Thatcher, Our “Best Good Friend.”

Thatcher James Swanson entered this world on December 10, 2012, and with him, brought an energy and joy that left a lasting impression on everyone with whom he came into contact. Thatcher was the son of Alessandra and Anthony Swanson, and he was truly the light of their lives. Their life as a family was a wonderfully happy one, filled with hugs, kisses, and arguments about who loved who the most. They referred to each other as "best good friends," and every night, they gathered to read books and snuggle Thatcher until he fell asleep. Thatcher woke up with a smile on his face each day, which only faded when he had to eat vegetables or clean up the collection of Legos that threatened to encroach on every inch of the family's apartment floor. 

Thatcher was a second-grader at Catherine Cook School. He was an incredibly curious and creative child, and took great pleasure in constructing art projects, playing make believe games with his stuffed animals, and inventing new Pokemon cards. Anything pink, purple, rainbow or sparkly (Thatcher’s favorite colors) were often squirreled away so Thatcher could use them to create the works of art that now adorn the homes of his loved ones. He was firm in his belief that when he grew up, he would buy the apartment upstairs from his parents, and balance a busy schedule of being an art teacher, an oceanographer (yes, in Chicago) and a professional Lego builder. He had the relentlessly inquisitive mind of his scientist father with the vocabulary (and clever retorts) of his attorney mother. 

Beyond all, Thatcher was known for—and will be remembered by— his incredibly kind heart.

He wanted for nothing, was beloved by all who crossed his path, and was keenly aware that there were many children who did not have access to the type of home, education, food and belongings that he did. 

Thatcher was tragically taken from us on October 1, 2020, just two months short of his eighth birthday. Thatcher was at an age where those who loved him were really starting to see a glimpse of who this wonderful boy might grow to be. We anticipated seeing the kind of man he would become and all the amazing things he would achieve. His absence has left a devastating gap not only for his family and friends, but also to a community that will greatly miss out on his contributions to better the lives of those around him.

To honor this beautiful child, and to carry on his legacy of kindness, we have created the Thatcher James Swanson Memorial Foundation.

We believe that Thatcher would have accomplished great things in his life, specifically to help other children have access to the type of education and resources that he did.

While Thatcher is no longer among us, this Foundation will carry out these projects on his behalf and ensure that his life and legacy positively impact children far into the future.