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Lynette Smith Lyman
February 25, 2005
Lauralyn, my family knew your family from way back when we used to walk to your house to pick up milk. My parents are Robert J. and Lola Smith and I guess our dads knew each other at BYU. Shirley Smith Ricks is my sister. I also knew your husband somewhat when we served in the Germany Central Mission together. I never worked with him, so didn't know him well, but I know he was greatly respected and that he was a wonderful missionary. I saw him at the American Heritage School's new building during an open house and then he came to my father-in-law's (Reed Lyman)viewing or funeral and we were able to talk to him again. He was serving in the stake presdidency of our Dad's stake. He served faithfully and well in whatever capacity he was assigned. I'd heard he was ill, but was surprised to hear of his death. May your whole family be comforted and blessed with peace at this difficult time.
David Muecke
February 16, 2005
I served in the Central German Mission at the time Elder Swim served. All I can say is that he left this life as honorably as he did his mission. God bless you, the entire Swim family.
David Lifferth
February 14, 2005
I was deeply saddened to learn of Gaylord Swim's illness and his recent passing. I enjoyed my close association and work with him on the Utah County Ad Hoc committee. Gaylord had a keen intellect and contributed to the benefit of our community, church, and society in many ways. He was a great man that made the world a better place by his hard work. His strong leadership and guiding hand will be missed.
Dennis Frank
February 13, 2005
Dear Sr. Swim and Family,
It was with deep sadness to hear of Gaylord's passing. Elder Stone from your Stake, who is serving a full time mission in our Ward here in Washington delivered the news at church today. I had the privilege to serve with Elder Swim in Minden, Germany. We worked hard and were successful. I learned a lot about his love for the Lord and love for the people we served in Germany during that time. His exemplary dedication and service will always stand out in my mind. Our family's heartfelt condolences and prayers are with you during this trying time.
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Nelson & Lucy Jones
February 13, 2005
Dear Swim Family,
We were so shocked and sorry to first hear of the illness and then the passing of your wonderful husband, father, grandfather, and son-in-law. We feel so honored to have known him and some of you when your family home was in Levan, Utah. We knew then that this man was going to do great things in this life and feel certain that he accomplished all he needed to do to fulfill his mission here and move on to greater things. Brother Bankhead must have had some work to do and needed help that only Gaylord could provide! Our hearts go out to you with this sudden loss on the heels of the loss of your father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. We pray that our Father in Heaven's choicest blessings will abide with each of you individually and as a family as you who are left behind struggle with the void that has been left from the loss of another great man.
Sincerely,
Marie (Kenison) York
February 12, 2005
Dear Sister Swim and family,
I know we must have had other home teachers when I was growing up on the farm, but Brother Swim is the only one I can honestly remember. It is great as a child to actually look forward to the home teachers coming as the highlight of your evening. He came at least once a month, and it always felt like our family was the most important thing in the world to him...I can see that he has had that effect on many many people. I will always look back on memories of when your family lived in Levan with great fondness. You and Brother Swim both had a way of making everyone feel welcome and loved. I know my parents love and admire you both, as do I. Brother Swim is sure to be doing some great work on the other side. My heart and love go out to you.
Love,
Kurt & Jeanne Southam
February 12, 2005
I have many fond memories of working with Br. Swim in Dusseldorf. Together we taught and baptized Br. Aipersbach which was a highlight of my mission. Br. Swim had such depth and commitment that he brought to life the gospel in such a warm and tender manner. He is a great man who has a great legacy!
Kurt Southam
Debbie Smith
February 11, 2005
Dear Swim Family,
We are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Mr. Swim. Though we knew him very little, we knew him to be a man of kindness, honesty and genuineness. We appreciate his commitment to education and his unwaivering dedication to American Heritage School. He will be greatly missed and always remembered as we walk through the halls of that beautiful school. Our heart felt prayers of peace and comfort go to you at this difficult time.
Mike and Debbie Smith
Bonnie Corbett Tanner
February 11, 2005
I remember Brother Swim as the best home teacher I have ever had. I was newly single parent and he came regularly for 4 years. I will never forget the Christmas Eve he and his sons came to my rescue when a water pipe broke in my basement. My 12 year old son David made this comment once, "I really admire Brother Swim. He is the kind of man you really want to get the respect of." May you have God's comfort in your grief.
Toni Walker
February 11, 2005
Dear Swim Family,
I was surprised to open the Deseret News and find the obituary of Gaylord Swim.
I met Gaylord and his family many years ago when they came to Enterprise Oregon for the baptism of John Lenahan, Marilyn's husband.
My friendship with Marilyn & John Lenahan in Wallowa County Oregon goes back many years. We were all members of the Enterprise OR Ward before I moved to Utah 10 years ago. I know your dear mother, Katherine, who came to visit Marilyn & John many times. I always enjoyed my conversations with Sister Swim, a gracious and refined woman. Roger also came to visit the Lenahans several times.
My memory of Gaylor Swim is of the tremendous kindness and support he and his family gave to the Lenahans the day John was baptized a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. What a joyful day that was! Marilyn had waited faithfully and patiently for many years as John studied and worked toward his baptism. I remember the marvelous feeling that the Spirit of the Lord was present at that event. The Swim family contributed to that special feeling with their faith, example of family support, and love for the Lenahan Family.
I just want the entire Gaylord Swim family to know how much I admire them. They represent to me a family of faith and obedience. Educated, refined, and lovers of truth, they use their talents and gifts to build the Kingdom of God. I am pleased to know you.
Kim Galbraith
February 11, 2005
Sister Swim and family,
As a "greenie" missionary arriving in Minden, Germany in March 1972, I was blessed to be assigned to work with Brother Swim. His immediate example of hard work, loving the people we were serving, and focusing on the Savior helped me to develop a pattern I would use my entire mission. Over the years, I have watched from afar as Gaylord's business-life and Church-life continued to reflect and exemplify these same characteristics.
I pray for the Lord's blessings to be with you and your entire family and for His comfort to be extended to you during this "short separation".
Bis auf Wiedersehen, Brueder Swim.
Gary & Sheryl Anderson
February 11, 2005
Dear Lyall & Jennifer, Pres. Anderson & I send our love to you. During our time in St. Petersburg, we had the pleasure of communicating with your Father. What a kind & wonderful person. While you & Pulham served as the office Elders, I wrote to tell him that even with the long hours you two spent in the office work, you still led the mission at that time with the most contacts, etc. I know it made your parents so proud of you. We also felt grateful for the valiant Elder you were. Do you remember our children who were there with us? They also send their sympathies. With love, Pres & Sister Anderson, and Sarah, Clint & Janelle.
Howard & Sherry Taylor
February 11, 2005
Dear Laurie & family,
Gaylord and I were in the mission field in Germany at the same time. I and my family wish to extend our sympathy and best wishes to you in this most difficult of experiences. Gaylord seemed like a fine individual. We hope time will be kind to your desparate grief.
Howard & Sherry Taylor
Cassandra Dawn Casey
February 10, 2005
Dear Swim family,
How very saddened I am to learn that President Swim's bright light has moved beyond this earthly plane.
I worked under his guidance as Legislative Vice-Chair in our voting precinct when he served as Chair, and was deeply inspired by this man of great vision and wisdom.
May you find comfort in your knowledge of our Heavenly Father's eternal plan, and in knowing that you will only be separated from him for a little while.
Cassandra Dawn Casey
(formerly, Dawn Rider)
Devin and Joanna Anderson
February 10, 2005
Stan, Michelle, Laurie & Family, in this time of passing, may you be consoled and strengthened by our thoughts and prayers.
Rick & Joyce Roudabush
February 10, 2005
Laurie and family:
Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this time. You and Gaylord have done so much for us.
thanks Rick & joyce
Howard & Lissa Bangerter
February 10, 2005
Our hearts go out to each of the the Swim family at this time of great loss. Brother Swim has left a legacy of honor and service that each of us would do well to emulate. We love you and offer our prayers that you will be comforted, knowing that there will be great rejoicing among us all in the great day of resurrection.
Much Love,
Howard & Lissa Bangerter, and Family
Stefanie Wells Hall
February 10, 2005
Dear Swim Family,
What wonderful contributions you have made to our community! I attended Waterford at the Provo Campus with your family and enjoyed associating with you and Pres. Swim. He is generous in spirit and mind. I am grateful to have known him and mourn with you now.
Todd & Shelley Hale
February 10, 2005
Stan, Michelle, Laurie & Family, May God continue to bless you and your family as you say goodbye to an undoubtedly great man, as testified in the image of his son, whom I've had the pleasure to know. I aspire to even half of the greatness that I've seen in the Swim family.
Gerald Smith
February 10, 2005
I met Gaylord only once and was very impressed with his dedication.
As he said "I don't send the money I take it." I know that he will be missed greatly.
Ron and Cecilia Fischer
February 9, 2005
Dear Laurie and family,
We are saddened by the passing of our dear President Swim and pray that you will feel the Savior's love at this difficut time. May His holy atonement and victory over the grave give you that sweet assurance that all is well. President Swim inspired us all to live a more Christlike life both by his words and his deeds. We look forward longingly to that day "When change and tears are past, all safe and blessed we shall meet at last." We want you to know how much we loved him and how much we love you.
All our love,
Ron, Cecilia, & family
John Oliver
February 9, 2005
I wish I could express the sadness I feel at the passing of Gaylord Swim. I have had the pleasure of personally knowing only a handful of truly great men. Gaylord is one of them. I had the honor of working with him in our ward in Orem. His inspiration, knowledge, and sensitivity are still an example to me.
The prayers of my family go to his. I know there is a special angel in heaven watching over them. They are truly a forever family. We love you.
February 9, 2005
Dear Laurie and family,
We at EFI were saddened to learn that Gaylord had passed away. He played such a big part in helping EFI become a viable business, providing financial support, vision, and leadership. He believed in us. He helped us weather growing pains and put us on the path to success we are experiencing today.
But he was more than a business partner. He was a great friend and an example of kindness and positive thinking. Thank you for sharing him with us those many years. We will miss him.
Your friends at EFI Electronics
Richard Byrnes
February 9, 2005
Just wanted to write a short note and say I never ever met Mr. Swim in person but I know his son Lyall Swim really well. He is in my ward and if his Dad his anything like Lyall he must be great. I just want to let the Family know I am so sorry for the passing of there Father and Husband. I love the Family much and my Prayers are with all of you always now and forever. This is from Thelma Byrnes also she is my Mother and my Wife Nan Byrnes we all live in Lyall and Jenny's Ward in American Fork. We love you and will always be there if you ever need a shoulder to lean on. May the Lord help you thru this time.
Angela (Havens) Davidson
February 9, 2005
Dear Swim Family,
I just want you to know that we love you and we are praying for you!
Janaye Day
February 9, 2005
Dear Sister Swim and Family:
I was so saddened to hear of your loss. President Swim was such a great man. I made his travel arrangements for many years and enjoyed working with him very much. He was always so kind and pleasant and fun to work with. I admired him for the obvious joy he found in his family as well as for his honesty and integrity. I pray for the Lord's blessings and comfort to be with you at this difficult time. May you be sustained in knowing that your husband, father, and grandfather was admired and loved by so many.
Jim and Carol Nelson
February 9, 2005
Dear Swim Family,
How sad we were to learn of Mr. Swim's passing. We knew him when our children went to American Heritage School. (Peter was in Laura's class--they were spelling bee competitors). What a fine example of pure love, charity, faith, and hard work Mr. Swim leaves for all of us. He was an inspiration and will be greatly missed.
David and Elaine Salisbury and Family
February 9, 2005
Words cannot express our love and admiration for Gaylord K. Swim and his wonderful wife, Laurie, and their children. His vision led us from Florida to Utah to assist in establishing the Sutherland Institute in 1995. Subsequently, we were privileged to become part of the American Heritage School family, over which he presided as President of the Board of Directors with wisdom, courage and faith. It was his vision that made possible the beautiful American Heritage School campus in American Fork that serves, not only as a school for children, but also as an outreach to the the community and to all who want to establish principle based schools throughout the world. Gaylord's vision was unmatched. His wisdom unsurpassed. He was as kind and sensitive as he was courageous and strong. How blessed we have been to be able to have known and worked with this great man! The way we can best honor Gaylord K. Swim is to carry forth the work he started and envisioned and to apply the principles he taught.
Shauna and Jackson Kaiserman
February 8, 2005
Dear Swim Family and especially Roger,
We are so saddened to hear about Gaylord's passing. We admired him from a distance at Hillsdale College gatherings and hearing him speak at educational gatherings. What a brillant man with such an ability to express himself articulately. We will miss his influence in the community but recognize that what he has done in his life will reverberate forever. We pray that you will be comforted by the sweet assurances of the Holy Ghost. Love, The Kaiserman Family
Jon & Miriam Fischer
February 8, 2005
Our thoughts and prayers go out to the Swim Family at this difficult time. President Swim lived an exemplary life worthy of emulation.
Paula Christensen
February 8, 2005
Dear Swim Family,
Oh, how we will miss Mr. Swim! He has been a visionary leader, mentor, counselor, friend and teacher in our lives. Thank you for sharing your dad and husband with us here at American Heritage School. There will never be an end to the difference he made in countless lives. We promise to carry on the vision he shared so eloquently with us.
I pray that the Lord will comfort you and hold you close.
Kim and Rosanne Oliver
February 8, 2005
Dear Swim Family,
Our family was deeply saddened to hear of President Swim's passing. He was a valiant servant of our Father in Heaven, a man of great vision, and always so kind and thoughtful to our daughter. Our prayers and deepest sympathies go out to your family at this difficult time. May you feel the comfort and loving arms of our Savior lift you up during the months ahead.

American Heritage School Sept. 2002
February 8, 2005
Glenn & Kathy Hunter
February 8, 2005
Our hearts and prays are with you at this time of loss. We loved serving with President Swim. He was a wonderful man and valiant servant of our Heavenly Father. He will be greatly missed by everyone who knew and loved him. He was a great example of the pure love of Chirst. May the comforting spirt of the Lord be with you and your family at this very difficult time.
Cherie Egan
February 8, 2005
Dear Roger, I am sorry to hear of the passing of your brother. You are in my thoughts and prayers at this difficult time. Cherie
Paul Taylor
February 8, 2005
President Swim's devotion to his faith, his ideals and his family have inspired me. I pray that his family will be comforted and supported in this time of loss, and that the memory of his integrity will remain bright.
The Kevin and JoAnna Rothe Family
February 8, 2005
A wonderful man will be missed by many who had the opportunity to be blessed by him at American Heritage School. We would like to take this opportunity to say "Thank You" for all that you have done to make our school move forward. We will miss Mr. Swim, but will know that his spirit will ALWAYS be in the halls of this beautiful school. May our dear Lord be with you at this time.
Dorothy Kitchen
February 8, 2005
To the family of President Swim,
My family, the Weston Kitchen Family, has lived in the Lakeridge North Stake since it was organized. I have thanked President Swim in person, but I would like to thank you for the support you gave to him so that he could serve us. Thank you very much!
I knew that President Swim was sincere in his service and his talks and personal conversations. I am grateful for men like him who make life better for all of us by their efforts.
Greg & Kirsten Call
February 8, 2005
We are praying for comfort for your family. We loved President Swim and he will be greatly missed.May the Lord help you to find peace at this time of great sorrow.
Lori Welch
February 8, 2005
We send our sympathy and love to Mr. Swim's family. Because of his hard work and generosity, many families have been blessed. Thank you, Mr. Swim, for making it possible for our children to attend American Heritage in such a beautiful building and receive an outstanding education. You have made this possible for so many people, and we thank you.
Tyler & Colleen Shurtz
February 8, 2005
Dear Sister Swim and family, The Shurtz Family would like to offer our deepest condolences at the Passing of President Swim. We have many fond memories of the times we were able to spend with him. Colleen was able to enjoy a canoe ride with Pres. Swim and Marci Schramm at Girls camp last year. He was very entertaining! We've always felt a great amount of respect for Pres. Swim and especially enjoyed his strong testimony of Jesus Christ and the love and concern he always showned to us. Our prayers are with you. Tyler & Colleen Shurtz
Linda Rich
February 8, 2005
All Rachel's friends at the BYU Center for Entrepreneurship want to send our sympathy to your whole family. This untimely death can only be endured by our knowledge of our Father's eternal plan. We wish to send our love and support during this difficult period for you all.
Jessica Griffith-Mitchell
February 8, 2005
President Swim was a very kind, humble, and gentle-hearted man. He spoke with an eloquence and grace that only a handful can command. When he did speak, you knew he was speaking directly from Heavenly Father and that is who directed his life daily. We love you, President Swim.
Nephi Poecker
February 8, 2005
We are shocked and sadened to hear of the passing of Bro.Swim And wish to let you know of our love for him and the love that you both have for our Parents. We are so sorry for your loss and ask the lord to bless you and your family in this time.
Love Nephi,Teeny and Family
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