Darleen Swanson's Obituary
Darleen was born on August 12, 1936 in St. Paul, MN to Fred and Eugenia Olsen.
For the past three years, Darleen endured the devastating effects of dementia. While residing at Manor Care, her devoted husband Bill was by her side each day to help and comfort her. All who saw Bill's tender, consistent dedication had great admiration for the love they shared. Darleen passed peacefully into the presence of her Lord and Savior on October 25, 2012 at age 76 surrounded by her loving husband and family.
Darleen was the youngest of 14 children. At a young age, after the death of her father in Minnesota, Darleen, her mother, and siblings moved to Tacoma to be near other family members. She attended Lowell, Mason, and Stadium schools.
As a young adult, Darlene worked at Little Park Café and Item House. When her brothers started their own business (Du-All Painting Contractors and Olsen Bros. Drywall & Painting) she worked as their secretary.
Darleen was a long-time member of the Tacoma Bible Presbyterian Church where she worked as the church secretary for over 20 years.
She was known for her generosity, wonderful cooking, and frequent entertaining in her home. She enjoyed making crafts of all kinds and owned Darleen's Ceramics for many years.
Survivors include the love of her life, Farrell -Å"Bill- Swanson. They met when Bill was stationed at Ft. Lewis in 1960. They celebrated their 50th anniversary on April 21, 2012. Also sons Fred Swanson, Eugene (Samantha) Swanson, four grandchildren including Lexi and Nicholas Swanson, two great-grandchildren, sister Beverly Dybdahl, and numerous nieces and nephews. Darlene was preceded in death by her parents, eleven brothers and one sister.
The family wishes to extend a heart-felt thanks to the staff and nurses of Manor Care of Gig Harbor who provided exceptional care for Darleen.
A memorial service to celebrate Darleen's life will be held on Saturday, November 10, 2012 at 11:00 AM at Tacoma Bible Presbyterian Church, 5 South G Street, Tacoma. The family requests that donations be made to the Tacoma Bible Presbyterian Church in Darleen's name.
II Timothy 1:12 -Å"For I know whom I have believed...-
Arrangements by Mountain View Funeral Home.
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