Mary Swanson

Swanson, Mary June Kalamazoo Age 96, passed away on Thursday, December 21, 2017. June was born in Cordell, Oklahoma on June 26, 1921, the daughter of the late Harry F., Jr. and Mary P. (Benderman) Brown. She was married for 58 years to Donald L. Swanson, who preceded her in death in 2002. June was a devoted companion to her husband, assisting in his political campaigns and supporting his career. June often said her one goal in life was to be a good mother. In this she succeeded spectacularly. She showed her family by example that the most important things in life were to be kind, empathetic, and always thoughtful of others. When her grandchildren absorbed those lessons and became kind, compassionate, and generous adults she could not have been more proud. June also dearly loved her "other family" at Friendship Village. Her relationships with residents and the devoted and talented employees there gave her much joy. At the end of her life, these relationships also brought her great comfort, for which her family is truly grateful. She is survived by her children, Kristin (Lee) Dyer, Bronson Swanson, Jan (Tom) Tiderington and Becky (Rick) Swartz; six grandchildren, Tina (Matt) Tintera, Matthew Dyer, Emmy and Evan (Kiersten Derby) Tiderington and Stephanie (Brian Block) and Kevin (Kelly) Swartz; great-grandchildren, Elliott Tiderington and Robin Swartz-Block; brother, Harry (Ann Lytle) Brown and former foreign exchange student, Elizabeth (Flavio) Carvalho. June was also preceded in death by her son, James Swanson. In accordance with June's wishes, cremation will take place and a memorial service will be held at a later date. Private interment will occur at Oakhurst Cemetery in Whitehall, Michigan. Memorial contributions may be made to Kalamazoo Loaves and Fishes and/or Friendship Village Employee Appreciation Fund, c/o the funeral home. Family and friends may share a condolence message online at www.joldersma-klein.com.