Betty Jane Swenor

Born May 5, 1932, in Marquette, Betty was raised by her mother, Julia Gustafson, in the Trowbridge Park area of Marquette Township. On June 27, 1953, Betty was united in marriage to William “Russ” Swenor, and together the couple made their first home in Marquette where they began raising their family. During this time, Russ was employed as a switchman with the Lake Superior and Ishpeming Railroad and Betty assumed the roles of wife, mom, and homemaker. While the children were still young, the family relocated to the Harvey area.

As a stay-at-home mom and homemaker, Betty was well known for her talented baking skills and her home was always prepared with a cup of coffee and some tasty dessert for whomever might drop by.

Throughout the years, her family enjoyed her cakes, cookies, and other goodies. She kept herself busy raising her five children and the bonus came when grandkids began arriving and she could enjoy caring for them and following their activities.

In her leisure, she also enjoyed reading, watching soap operas, and walking. She attended the Landmark United Pentecostal Church in Harvey.

Betty is survived by her children, David (Pam Mattson) Swenor, Peggy Granger, Debra (Kenneth, Jr) Zeug, Peter Swenor, and Janet McKindles; her grandchildren, Marcie Swenor, Bradley Swenor, Heather (David) Fuqua, Eric (Laura) Granger, Daniel (Allie) Zeug, Jessica (Ryan) Heidtman, Katelyn (Ed) Bretzloff, Jordan (Tiffani) McKindles; great-grandkids, Harper, Connor, Luke, Logan, Landon, Londyn, Lilliana, Kylie, Celeste, Bree, Caroline, Tommy, and Charlotte. Additionally, Betty is survived by sisters, Mary (Harry) Boucher and Dolly (William) Stuer; many nieces and nephews.

In addition to her mother, Betty was preceded in death by her husband, Russ in 2011; a sister and brother-in-law, Shirley and Lowell Miller; and brother and sister-in-law, Roy and Mary Hood.

The family will receive relatives and friends at Fassbender Swanson Hansen Funeral and Cremation Services on Monday, January 20, beginning at 10:00 am until the time of service at 11:00 am. Rev. Gary Penning will officiate. A reception will follow in the funeral home reception room. Interment will be made in the Holy Cross Cemetery.

The family would like to express their appreciation to the caregivers of UP Home Health and Hospice, especially caregiver Dorothy, for their compassionate and professional care of Betty, and for the many kindnesses they extended to the family.

Fassbender Swanson Hansen Funeral and Cremation Services is serving the family, where condolences may be expressed online at fassbenderswansonhansen.com