Dale Swanson

Dale was predeceased by his parents Roy and Flora Swanson. Dale is lovingly remembered by his devoted partner Judy Hawken, children Monica (Wayne) Radwanski, Darren (Tavia) Swanson, stepdaughter Jody (Terry) Hawken, sister Lorna Swanson, Aunt Diana Swanson, grandson Christopher Swanson, granddaughter Jessica (Kevin) Swanson, grandson Jonathon (Kaelee) Swanson, great-granddaughter Violet Swanson, great-grandson Odin Swanson, Sister-in-law Rosalie Swallow, nephews Corrie (Lindsay) Swallow James (Bobbie Lee) Swallow, niece Kimberley (Curtis) Perry, great-nieces and nephews and a host of long-time friends and family.

Born on June 28, 1944 in Grenfell, Saskatchewan, Dale grew up on the family farm where he attended school in the small communities of Bemersyde and Peebles. Dale married at a young age and shortly after, his first child Monica was born. Three years later, his son Darren was born and Dale worked hard to provide for his family. In 1965 he opened Swanson's Trenching and remained running his business for 53 years, right up until his last day. Dale was a busy man. He upkept the Graytown Cemetery and took pride in caring for the loved ones of others. He maintained the family farm, caring for cattle, alpacas, sheep, emus and any other creatures Darren would bring home- including the turkeys that weren't supposed to be able to fly but ended up flying up over top of the house! In 1987, Dale became a grandfather. In the end, he had three grandchildren who loved him more than words could ever express. He took them in the Backhoe when he was doing chores, and he took them camping. He hosted so many Christmas meals and impressed anyone that attended with the desserts he put together- except the special dessert for the grandchildren (Sardines covered in whipped cream and chocolate sauce)! All those memories and more, they will always hold dear. In 2003, Dale found his dedicated partner Judy. Dale and Judy spent their years together adding more magnificence to the family farm. Together they made a beautiful rose garden, built a gazebo, a little cabin, a fish pond and many more little pieces that make the farm what it is today. Dale was known and loved by so many.

His celebration of life will take place on Friday October 19, 2018 at the Corning Hall at 2:00 p.m. He will be laid to rest at the Graytown Cemetery by anyone who knew and loved him. The family invites all who wish to celebrate Dale's life to join them for lunch at the hall following their private ceremony to share stories and reminisce about the man that so many were privileged to know.