Obituary of Swannie Sawchyn

Swannie Margit Sawchyn of Camrose, formerly of Grande Prairie, passed away Friday, April 12, 2013 at the age of 78 years. Swannie was born on May 12, 1934 to Wilhelm and Olli Braathen in the small community of Valhalla north of Grande Prairie, Alberta. Swannie was raised on a farm along with two brothers Sig and Melvin, and two sisters Mona and Thelma. She also had one sister Gerd who resided in Norway. Swannie had a smile and a contagious laugh that captivated many. Her friendly personality was just one of many attractions that captured the heart of Nick Sawchyn. Nick and Swannie were married on October 22, 1973. They built a life together enjoying gardening, playing cards, dancing and socializing with family and friends. Swannie had a strong love for children. Over the years she provided child care to over 150 children between the ages of several months to ten years. Swannie and Nick retired and moved to Camrose in 2002. Swannie was predeceased by her parents; sisters Gerd and Thelma; brother Melvin; and daughter Kay. She is survived by her husband Nick; brother Sig (Doris) of Burnaby, B.C.; sister Mona (Andy) of Wembley, Ab; children Kristine Whiteman of Edmonton, Paul Whiteman (Carol Littlewolfe) of Pelly, Sk, Peter Whiteman (Mary Jean) of Regina, Sk., Linda (Barrie) McFalls of Edmonton, Brenda Whiteman (Peter Stinson) of Saskatoon, Sk and Donna (Bill) Vinzant of Asheville, North Carolina; and grandchildren Ryan, Daniel and Hayley McFalls, Carrie Gates, Naomi (David) Doell, Keith Whiteman, and Sherese and Ashley Whiteman. A Funeral Service was held 2:00 p.m., Friday, April 19, 2013 from the Burgar Memorial Chapel with Rev. Bill Harder officiating. Interment followed in The Camrose Valleyview Cemetery. If family and friends so desire, memorial contributions are gratefully accepted to the Epilepsy Association (11007 124 St Edmonton, Alberta T5M 0J5).