GERALD SWANSON

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GERALD SWANSON January 23, 1931 - February 23, 2015 In loving memory of Gerald (Gerry) Swanson, 84 years. Gerry was born in Winnipeg where he lived all but 23 years of his life. During those 23 years from 1987- 2010, Selkirk was home. In the summer of 2014, they moved to River Ridge Retirement Residence. Gerry first worked at the T. Eaton Co., where he was employed for several years. He went on to work at Ashdowns Warehouse, for 12 years. After leaving Ashdowns, he worked at the Marshall Wells Co. for another 12 years. Following Marshall Wells he was employed by Versatile Manufacturing (12 years) before moving onto Canada Post until his retirement, 9 years later. While Gerry had been working at Ashdowns, he met his future wife to be, Clarice. Clarice worked at the Winnipeg Free Press and he would meet her every day after work to walk her home, stopping at the B & B restaurant for a coke. They married on June 20, 1953 at St. Phillips Anglican Church in Norwood, where Clarice had lived and gone to school. Their first daughter Carol, was born on Christmas day, 1954. Their second daughter Beverlee, was born in June of 1959. Kevin, their first son, was born in April of 1962. Their second son Bruce, was born in November of 1964. Gerry came across as a quiet, easy going guy, but those close to him knew he had a strong will. His best friends in teasing, referred to him as "the sage". Gerry often said of himself that he was just a down-to-earth simple guy who loved his home life and family with all his heart. In earlier days, they enjoyed cross country skiing, cycling, long walks and backyard BBQ's. They were both movie buffs and attended often. They loved dancing; especially the 50's style jive. Gerry enjoyed bowling in Selkirk, never missing a week until he became ill. They enjoyed traveling, which included cruising. Gerry's favorite destination was Hawaii. Over the years, they had many serious challenges, but managed to survive them all. Gerry and Clarice, from the time they were married, belonged to the Anglican Church which included St. Bartholomew, St. Thomas, and St. Clements. Gerry worked on various committees. Over the years, they became proud grandparents to five granddaughters - Kyra, Erin, Taylor, Amirah, and little Sarah. They have one grandson Luke, and step-grandchildren Jennifer and Tyler. Gerry was predeceased by his mother Minnie, grandmother Sarah (Joseph Ullen), and his younger brother, Ted. Gerry is survived by his wife Clarice, their four children, Carol, (Michael Foort), Beverlee (Don Sault), Kevin (Jenefer), and Bruce. Grandchildren Kyra (Marc), Erin, Taylor (Kevin), Luke (Danica), Amirah and Sarah. Brother Donald Swanson (Lorraine), brother-in-law Laurence Beauchamp (Margaret), nieces, nephews and cousins. Gerry passed peacefully in hospital with family at his side. Cremation has taken place and a Celebration of Life will take place June 13 at 11:00 a.m. at St. Clements Church, 1178 River Rd, Selkirk, MB. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Clements Anglican Church or the Winnipeg Humane Society. The family would like to thank all the medical staff of Floor 4, Unit 2, Seven Oaks Hospital for their caring and compassion. Thanks also to Archdeacon Godfrey Mawejje (St. Clements Church) for his prayers and support. "Shed not tears of sorrow for me, but rather tears of joy and laughter. Celebrate my life; I am only a thought and prayer away and will forever remain within each and every one of you". VOYAGE FUNERAL HOME 204-668-3151

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Feb 28, 2015