Suzanne Swan

Suzanne Swan PORTSMOUTH - Suzanne Swan, 83, died Sept. 22, 2010 in Sentara Norfolk General Hospital. She was born May 4, 1927, in Centerville, Iowa, one of five children of Russell and Margaret Buss. She married Robert "Bob" Swan and subsequently moved to Charleston, S.C., where he completed his residency in neurology and began his career as a Navy neurologist. Dr. Swan was transferred to Portsmouth Naval Hospital where he practiced as a neurologist and she volunteered numerous hours for the Navy Relief Society. When he left the Navy to begin a private practice, she managed his medical practice until his death. Not ready to retire, she began a new career in tax preparation, managing a tax return office until her retirement at age 80. She is survived by seven children, Margot McMurry Swan of Austin, Texas, Jack Swan and wife Dana of Charleston, S.C., James Swan and wife Debby of Portsmouth, Rene' Collins and husband Mike of Hagerstown, Md., Carol Farpour and husband Alireza Farpour of Chesapeake, Mike Swan of Iowa, and Grant Swan of Iowa. Affectionately known as "Nana," she is survived by 18 grandchildren and 18 great-grandchildren. She was predeceased by her husband, Dr. Robert Swan; an infant son Jeffrey; and infant granddaughters, Allison, Rachel and Christine Farpour. Energetic and active up until her illness, she enjoyed countless trips with her children. She was an avid bridge player and truly enjoyed the friendships she shared with this passion. A former member of Redeemer Lutheran church, she was thoroughly enjoying her new church family and Sunday school class at Centenary United Methodist Church. She also enjoyed spending time with her two Siamese cats, watching football, knitting, and reading. Her family was precious to her and no time more valued than the time she spent with them, especially when centered around her famous Thanksgiving dinner or any other meal. She was truly the matriarch of the Swan family, very much loved, and will be missed by one and all. A funeral will be held Monday, Sept. 27, at 1 p.m. in Centenary United Methodist Church by Pastor George B. Neas. Burial will be in Meadowbrook Memorial Gardens. The family will receive friends at Sturtevant Funeral Home, Portsmouth Blvd. Chapel, Sunday from 6 to 8 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Fraternal Order of Police, Gosport Lodge 20, Portsmouth or Centenary United Methodist Church, Portsmouth. www.SturtevantFuneralHome.com