Anne Gabrielle Swanton "Gabby"

After a brave journey with cancer, we are heartbroken to announce the passing of Gabby, peacefully at Margaret’s Place Hospice with family at her side on Saturday, February 3, 2024, at the age of 56. Beloved spouse of J. David McHarg. Mother of Madeline Anne (William) and Robert Russell. Predeceased by her parents Linda Joan Dyment (nee Lefler) and Wayne Robert Swanton, and survived by her step-mother Janice Swanton and step-father Barry Dyment. Sister of Suzanne Swanton (Lynne Mitchell), Jill Swanton-Fluit (Mark), Derek Swanton (Sharon), Jess Swanton (Matt McKenna), and Nora Zess (Ken). She will be sadly missed by her sisters and brothers-in-law, as well as many nieces, nephews, extended family and friends.

Gabby will long be remembered for her deep connections and support for her family and friends. She was the person everyone wanted on their team. The go-to person for advice on pet care. A no-nonsense decision maker with a great sense of humour, wit, fun, and above all her undeniable selflessness.

Gabby graduated from the R.V.T. program at Centralia College and after 4 years in a busy emergency hospital, found her way to the Ontario Veterinary College. During her 25 years on staff at the OVC, Gabby held several positions but found her true passion while part of the Diagnostic Imaging Department as a technician and instructor, and in ECC as a Triage Technician. At OVC, Gabby touched the lives of her colleagues, students and faculty with her strong commitment to the field. She was a leader in ensuring the highest standard of care for animals and would accept nothing less of herself and others. When Gabby retired from OVC in 2022, she joined miEducation, a veterinary continuing education centre where her passion and enthusiasm for the field continued. Despite her short time there, Gabby created new courses that will continue to be taught in the future.

A memorial visitation will be held at the Marlatt Funeral Home “Swackhamer Chapel”, 195 King Street West, Dundas, on Monday, February 26th from 2-4 and 7-9 pm. A Memorial Service will be held in the Marlatt Dundas Chapel on Tuesday February 27th at 11:00 am. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Gabby’s Fund through Pet Trust, https://uoguel.ph/gabbysfund, all contributions will be used to honour Gabby’s memory.

She is now reunited with her dog, Peach.