Denise Marie Swallow

“But there’s a story behind everything. How a picture got on a wall. How a scar got on your face. Sometimes the stories are simple, and sometimes they are hard and heartbreaking. But behind all your stories is always your mother’s story because hers is where yours begin” – Mitch Albom

The story of Denise Marie Swallow (Gebert) began on April 14th, 1953, born to Emil and Mary Gebert. She grew up on 12 block Rae Street in Regina, Saskatchewan. A little sister to Terry and a big sister to Debbie and Brian. After completing her childhood schooling at O’Neill High School, she attended the University of Regina, graduating with a Bachelor of Education. It was during university that she met Keith at a wedding dance in Kipling. They were married September 28th, 1974, 50 years ago. The two made their home in Windthorst where they welcomed four children, Richard, Lisa, Jennifer and Robert. Over the years the family grew to include Todd, Tracy, Amber and grandchildren Jewel, Jack, Howie, Talon, Ethan, Charlie and Malia.

Denise grew up a “city” girl, but she fully embraced her life as a wife, mother, farmer and community member. She was a valued member of the Windthorst School staff working as an administrator, learning support assistant, librarian and substitute teacher. After her time working in the school, she became the Administrator for the Village of Windthorst. Denise loved her work and she not only contributed to her home, but she assisted in mentoring colleagues in neighboring towns and villages. Her contributions to the community were many as she volunteered regularly with various groups and community initiatives including St. Pius Catholic Church.

Denise was an avid sports fan. She was always there to watch and support her children and grandchildren in all their activities. She loved her Roughriders, Bruins and Blue Jays through the good years and bad.

In May of 2023 she received a difficult cancer diagnosis. She spent the last 14 months courageously and gracefully living her values of Trust, Surrender, Believe, Receive. On July 19th, 2024, with her husband and children by her side she continued her story as she was called home to God.

Denise is survived by her husband of 50 years Keith Swallow and her children and grandchildren: Richard and Tracy Swallow, Jewel Talon and Ethan; Lisa Swallow; Jennifer and Todd Rennebohm, Jack and Howie; Robert and Amber Swallow, Charlie and Malia. She will be lovingly remembered by her sisters Terry Leitner and Debbie Probe (Mike) and her brother Brian Gebert and their families. Denise holds a special place in the hearts of her Swallow family: Judy Swallow; Marie Swallow (Allan); Carmen Swallow (Brenda); Ellen Windjack (Jayson) and Nancy McKenzie (Andrew) in addition to her numerous nieces and nephews.

The funeral mass was celebrated in St. Pius R.C. Church, Windthorst, SK., on Friday, July 26, 2024 at 2:00 p.m. by Rev. Joseph Villamartin. The mass was live streamed with the link that is posted below.

Donations made in Denise's memory to the Allan Blair Cancer Center, c/o Saskatchewan Cancer Agency 200-4545 Parliament Avenue, Regina, Saskatchewan S4P3X1 or to a local charity of choice are appreciated by the family.