Steven Swanson, of Wallingford, passed away Saturday, January 17th, 2015.  He was 58. Steven was born in New Haven, the oldest son of Ray and Sonya Swanson, formerly of Madison. He was a 1974 graduate of Daniel Hand High School in Madison and a 1976 graduate of the Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, New York.

As a certified Executive Chef, Steven worked for many years around the county for the Marriott Hotel chain before returning to his home state of Connecticut. He ran the kitchens of several well-known and well-regarded restaurants in the state, including the Venetian in Torrington and Lena’s Cafe and Confections in New Haven, as well as being a restaurateur in his own right, notably at Steven’s, Ltd. in North Stonington.

Steven is survived by his loving wife, Laurie Belden, of Wallingford, his mother, Sonya Connor, his brothers, Scott and Glenn Swanson, his children, Erik Swanson and Kelsey Dexter, many nieces and nephews, and many valued friends and colleagues. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations can be made in Steven’s memory to the Wallingford Public Library or ASPCA. The family would also like to thank the dedicated and caring doctors, nurses, and staff of the Smilow Cancer Center in New Haven.

Funeral Services will be private and at the convenience of the family. The North Haven Funeral Home, 36 Washington Avenue, has been entrusted with arrangements.