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GAIL SWATEK  Obituary pic

GAIL SWATEK

Date of Passing: Oct 13, 2012

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GAIL SWATEK Funeral Liturgy was Celebrated on Thursday, October 18, 2012 at 1:00 p.m. in St. Vital Roman Catholic Church, 1629 Pembina Highway with Rev. Fr. Barry Schoonbaert, presiding.
Publish Date: Oct 20, 2012

GAIL SWATEK In the early morning of Saturday, October 13, 2012, Gail's fight with ALS was finally over. Left to forever cherish Gail's memory are her husband Russel, of almost 50 years of marriage; son, David (Elan); daughter, Susan Berthiaume (Dave); and her beloved grandchildren - the lights of her life, Rachel, Max, and Soren. She will also be mourned by her dearest friends and relatives who kept her laughing and comfortable as long as possible; brother, Dan, sister-in-law, Glenda; cousins, Judy and Nona by her side. Gail will be remembered for her smile, laughter, and hospitality. She had the ability to make anyone feel at home and comfortable in her life, her home, and her garden, whether you had been her friend for 65 years or you met her an hour ago. Her strong spirit will live long through stories, recipes, and her passion for people. Gail had a true interest in humankind, especially children. Most of her working life was spent as an Early Childhood Educator at Universal Day Care, minutes from her home. Until her illness, she was still regularly greeted by children, now grown, whose early life was nurtured by Gail's warmth and attention. Never forgetting a birthday or occasion, Gail's card or call arrived first and was handpicked with love. Her greatest joys were her connections to your life. Whether it was hosting a family gathering making playdough with a grandchild or walking in nature with Russ, all events and activities were savoured and treasured by Gail, especially her trips to British Columbia to see her nieces and nephew. She made room for everyone in her heart. Her final days were like all of her days, surrounded by the people she cared about the most. Our family would like to thank the staff of the ALS Society of Manitoba and Brummitt-Feasby House, who made their home our home when it mattered most. In the earlier stages of her illness, her staff of home care workers helped her adjust and keep laughing through the rapid changes she faced. No one could have fought more bravely, more fiercely, than Gail. Funeral Liturgy will be Celebrated on Thursday, October 18, 2012 at 1:00 p.m. in St. Vital Roman Catholic Church, 1629 Pembina Highway with Rev. Fr. Barry Schoonbaert, presiding. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Gail's memory to ALS Society of Manitoba, 493 Madison Street, Winnipeg, MB, R3J 1J2 and Brummitt-Feasby House, 106 Kirby Drive, Assiniboia, MB R2Y 0E8. Wojcik's Funeral Chapel is in care of arrangements.
Publish Date: Oct 16, 2012

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Oct 20, 2012

Condolences & Memories (15 entries)

  • Russ, Susan, David and the rest of her family. I just found out today but am very sorry for ur loss. I got the pleasure of knowing and meeting every last one of u. I loved working and talking to Gail every chance I got. She was the nicest kindest lady and she will be missed muchly. - Posted by: Terralee Pearson (Friend/caregiver) on: Nov 26, 2012

  • Russ, Susan, David and family's I am very grieved to hear Gail passed away. I had no idea until today. She really captured my heart, and I miss her all the time. Even more so now that I cannot see her. God Bless all of you in this very hard time. My prayers will be with you all. Gail had a way of drawing you in with her great sense of humour and kindness. I so enjoyed working with her. It never felt like work but a pleasure to spend time with her. - Posted by: Darleen Tunny (Friend / Care giver) on: Nov 23, 2012

  • I was honored to meet and sing for Gail, Russ and family at the Brummitt-Feasby house and saddened to hear of her recent passing. My thoughts are with you all at this difficult time. - Posted by: Cindi Cain () on: Oct 26, 2012

  • All of the above comments about this sweet, precious woman are true! So many more were left out - Gail was so much to so many people, whether child or senior. She always took the time and made you feel special no matter what you may have interrupted her doing. I am so very glad that I made it "home" to Winnipeg in January and was able to spend a little time each day with her for the short week that I was there. Good bye my friend and God Speed. Love, Sandy - Posted by: Sandra Hebert (Friend) on: Oct 20, 2012

  • Susan, I am thinking of you and my heart goes out to you at this sad time. Wishing peace for you and your family. Namaste Joan Hreno - Posted by: Joan Hreno (freind) on: Oct 18, 2012

  • Susan - Sending love. Sid - Posted by: Sid Wittmann (Friend from Yoga class) on: Oct 18, 2012

  • Dear Gail: In my heart of hearts dear Gail, I knew especially lately, that your passing would finally and thankfully end your suffering of this awful disease called ALS, and you would be whisked-off like star-dust to a better and kinder world that no one deserves more than you. But it doesn't make this constant pain I have been feeling each day since last Saturday any easier. Although I have been away from Winnipeg for many years, you have always played large in my constant thoughts and memories of all the family I so miss; and it's sad for me to believe that I won't be able to see that huge, beautiful trademark smile of yours, or hear that infectious laugh ever again. Yes, THAT laugh! I take comfort in the fact that you spent your last days surrounded by the people who meant most to you and loved you so very much. So many loved you Gail! And I just want you to know that I am wearing, right now, 'those so-special to me', amethyst earrings you gave me from your treasure trove as we both shared February birthdays when I visited with you in your lovely home just the year before in September. Such a poignant and touching moment that will always be a cherished memory! And I was so happy I could see you again that week a few times, although I must admit, I was hoping for just one more time. It was not to be. Godspeed my dear cousin. I miss you. Much Love, Marlene, Michael and Kyle - Posted by: Marlene Buckler Zahar (Cousin) on: Oct 17, 2012

  • Russ and Family I am thinking of you and your family as you mourn the loss of a wife, mother, grandmother, friend. Gail was one very special spirit who will never be forgotten and through the gift of a memory she will continue to walk with you wherever you may go. I wish you all peace and serenity in the days, weeks and months ahead. In friendship and caring and sympathy, Gail Henderson (nee Gerelus) - Posted by: Gail Henderson (Childhood friend) on: Oct 17, 2012

  • We send our thoughts to Susan and her family at this time. If you need anything all you have to do is ask. Remember that you taught us to support each other and please know that we do and this will always include you. - Posted by: ndinawe alumni (friends) on: Oct 17, 2012

  • Russ, Susan & David I am so sorry for your loss. We share comfort in knowing Gail is no longer suffering. We send thoughts of sympathy and support to you as you begin your journey without your wife and mother. Although it's difficult today to see beyond the sorrow, may looking back in memory help comfort you tomorrow - Posted by: Bonnie Abbott & Bill West (Friend) on: Oct 16, 2012

  • Our thoughts are with each one of you & we remember the good family times in the past. May Gail Rest in Peace & enjoy the great beyond!! God be with you all!! - Posted by: Steve & Caroline Nykon (Brother & Sister-in-Law) on: Oct 16, 2012

  • Sue, I remember your mother's bran muffins. Back in high school when we used to hang out at your place, there was always a tin of them on the counter. They remain the best I have ever tasted. I'm so sorry for your loss. John and I are thinking about you and your family at this difficult time. - Posted by: susie smith () on: Oct 16, 2012

  • The long & courageous battle of our friend and neighbor Gail has come to an end. She can now rest peacefully. From her "planting advice" to sharing a joke over the fence we will miss her! - Posted by: Peter & Betty Stratman & Family () on: Oct 16, 2012

  • Know that every person who met you will never forget you. Your laughter, your sense of humor, the stories that you told I will hold dear to my heart. This is not good bye, it is until we meet again. Russ, David, Susan and families you are in my thoughts and prayers. - Posted by: Lori Loch (Friend/Health Care Aide) on: Oct 16, 2012

  • Susan and all of the Swatek Family. My deep sympathies at this time. At this time of sorrow, may these truths sustain you... Your loved one will always be as close as a memory, and the God of all comfort will always be as close as a prayer. Greetings from Germany - Posted by: Waldemar (Co.Worker (Winnipeg Harvest)) on: Oct 16, 2012

Wojcik's All Beliefs and Faiths Funeral Chapel (Main Street)

Wojcik's All Beliefs and Faiths Funeral Chapel (Main Street)

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