Muriel M. Swanson

Our mother, Muriel Maurine Swanson, left us peacefully at her home on January 14, 2011, just a few days following the celebration of her 89th birthday on January 8, 2011. She will be greatly missed by her children - Lea (Svein) Gudbranson of Blaine, Carole Sorenson of Bellingham, Lesley (Dan) Roberts of Olympia, Jim (Kathy) of Bellingham & Sally (Steve) McKissick of Woodinville. Grandchildren are Chris Gudbranson, Amanda Swanson, Justin & Sierra McKissick; great grandchildren, Payton & Troy. Also, her precious "companion kitty" Lady Lavinia & "dog friends" Honey & Brandy. Muriel was born in England & came to Canada with her mother as an only child. She later moved to Bellingham as a young bride & became a proud citizen in 1951. She worked in the office at the Bellingham Shipyards & became active politically. The Marietta Fire Department #8 was conceptually formed with husband Ernie on their dining room table with her tirelessly serving as secretary until retirement at age 75. She loved "her boys" at the department & was always proud of their success. Fiercely independent, she was a source of strength for her family & she dearly loved her home of more than 50 years. Her passion was the welfare of animals & she somehow managed to support numerous groups. A few of the things that we will remember forever are her willingness to listen, her thoughtful & beautifully wrapped little gifts & her distinctively lovely handwriting. In lieu of flowers, we know she would appreciate a contribution to a local animal charity in her name. It is impossible to condense our mother's life in this brief writing. To that end, a celebration of her life will be held on Friday, January 28, 2011 at 1:00 pm at Moles Bayview Chapel in Bellingham. You may share your thoughts and memories of Muriel in the online memorial guest book at www.molesfuneralhomes.com Moles Family Funeral Homes & Crematory, Bayview Chapel