Mary Madonna Swanson

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Mary (Mare) Madonna Swanson (Martin) on May 3rd, 2019. Mary was 74 at the time of her passing.

Mary was born on November 29th, 1944 in Denver, Colorado to Wilfred Michael and Mary Madonna Martin (Body) and she was the eldest of nine children. Mary joined Joseph Willard Swanson in marriage on December 10th, 1966 and the couple had two sons; Michael Joseph and Erik Stanley. The Swanson family immigrated to Canada in 1974, and embarked on a challenging pioneer-style life for many years. Mary was living in Vernon, B.C. at the time of her passing and was recently retired from a long and proud career in periodical publishing with Monahan Agency.

Mary enjoyed writing including short stories and journaling her dreams, but most of all Mary loved spending time with her family; especially time with her sons and granddaughter as well as her cherished “girls trips” and many visits with her family in the United States.

Mary was predeceased by her husband Joe (separated) and survived by sons Michael (Raechel) and Erik as well as her sole grandchild Shayla Lee Swanson (daughter of Michael). Mary’s siblings mourn the loss of their older sister: Therese Ann Martin, Wilfred Michael Martin (Jeanie), Peter Anthony Martin (Rose), Donald Phillip Martin (Annette), Elizabeth (Bebe) Martin, Nicholas (Nick) Charles Martin (Jill), Bernadette (Bunny) Cecilia Wheeler (Bill) and Laurette (Laurie) Heinz (Harry).

A celebration of life for Mary is planned for June 29th at 1:30pm at the Schubert Centre in Vernon B.C. Anyone wishing to share memories and appreciation of Mary is encouraged to attend.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.pleasantvalleyfh.com for the Swanson family.