In Memory Of

Susan "Sue" Joan Swarbrick

Apr 23, 1950 - Aug 29, 2023

Service

  No service will be held

Obituary

With unbelievable grief, we announce the passing of our beloved wife, mother, and grandmother. The void is immense. Sue left us due to heart and immune system complications which were ongoing.

She leaves behind her heartbroken husband Dick; son Dean and daughter Kim (Jay, who both loved her dearly; and three wonderful grandchildren – granddaughter Maya and twin grandsons Rowan and Nevin. Sue will also be greatly missed by her Ragdoll cat, Sophie and Chihuahua, Maggie.

Everyone is in disbelief. Sue was predeceased by her parents, Janice and Stan, sisters Gail and Sharon and brother Ray. On September 4, Sue’s brother Doug Tytler, the last surviving family member, also passed away. A double tragedy!

Sue is also survived by her sister-in-law Jean Tytler of Rimbey, AB and brother-in-law Al Deines of Parksville, BC.

Sue was born in Rimbey, the third of five children. Living on a farm east of Rimbey ignited her love of animals, which lasted throughout her life. In the 1960s, a move to Ponoka ensued. School wasn’t her thing, and she moved to Edmonton, then Calgary chasing many dreams which gave her a good work ethic for her life ahead. Back in Ponoka, she worked at Northcott Nursing Home.
A chance meeting at a Christmas party in 1969 had far-reaching consequences. Dick and Sue went together for 1970 and were married in the spring of 1971 and it endured for over 52 years.

Their first six years were spent in Red Deer, until just before Christmas in 1977 when they moved to a small town called Sylvan Lake. It was here they remained in the same house until the present day.

By then, the kids had arrived – Kim in 1975 and Dean in 1977 – and life was busy. Sue was a wonderful mother, an excellent cook (she would’ve been a good army cook with her large portions). She had an artistic talent which she somewhat pursued, and an amazing green thumb. Her favourite flower was brown-eyed Susans.

After the kids were in school, she went to work at the Inn at the Lake, eventually becoming manager for over 20 years. Between work and meeting many people in town, some are still family friends to this day.

An avid yard-saler, she and Dick spent many Friday afternoons and Saturdays in pursuit of bargains. Items picked up years ago are still with us to this day.

Sue’s biggest passion in life evolved into animal welfare. The house became a haven for stray cats and dogs. No was not an option. The animals she befriended over the years were many and loved by all the family. Her love of animals rubbed off on Kim, Dean, the grandchildren and Dick. It is good therapy for everyone.

In 1994, in addition to the Sylvan Lake residence, Sue and Dick acquired an acreage at Caroline – truly a make-work project. Much work has made it into a haven in the wilderness. It was here that Sue was in her element. All of the dogs and cats would be taken out in the summer, plus the dogs and cats from the four neighbouring properties would come over for a free meal. This made her very happy.

As time went on, a horse Tina and a donkey Jenny were added to the family. They were the two most spoiled animals in the west country. Sue doted on them also. In Sylvan, an insulated and heated cat house became a must. All being told, there are 16 pets in the Swarbrick Pet Cemetery.

At Sue’s request, there will be no funeral or celebration of life. In her own words, “gone is gone.” Cremation has taken place.

Those wishing may make donations in memory of Sue to the Wild Horses of Alberta or the Savings Grace Animal Society in Alix.

Thank you to the ICU nurses for keeping Sue comfortable, for friends calling and for messages of condolences received below.

When you pick a brown-eyed Susan or rescue an animal in distress, she will be smiling.

Condolences

Dwain and Karen Johnson:

Dick we just saw this and we’re shocked and so DEEPLY sorry for the loss of an incredible lady Sue.
I worked with her at Inn At The Lake and also had some great conversations when we ran into each other talking about each others children. Last time I ran into Sue I think we talked over an hour.
To your kids and grandkids and you Dick we are deeply sorry for your loss.
May your memories bring smiles and remember Sue is watching over you all.
Karen and Dwain Johnson

Sharon Lach:

Sue you will be missed dearly. I loved the moments when we came outside and walked over to each others place to talk. Living across the street was the best neighbors ever! I will miss you calling me hello Shar-bear! RIP

Sandi :

Sue wil be missed. I worked at a grocery store in town for years, Sue was a great customer she woud aways come in and chat. Always a huge smile on her face and so friendly. One thing I personal remember about her is her laugh. We would always have a good laugh. Her smile and laugh will be missed. Sorry for your loss.

Wendy Graham:

Sue has always been one of my Favorite people, she always had smile on her face. She will be missed

Ken Josie Frid:

So sorry for your loss will miss seeing her in the store

Ethel Wilde :

Dick sorry for your loss my prayers are with you and family .

Don & Lydia Lanterman :

Dick, we are so sorry to hear of Susan’s passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and the family.

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