LINDA L SWENDSEN

Linda Lorraine Swendsen (Martell), 76, passed away unexpectedly at her home on June 12, 2025, in Standish, Maine. Born on May 14, 1949, in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, Linda lived a life rooted in dedication, creativity, and deep appreciation for the natural world.

Linda devoted over three decades of her professional life to the Saunders Brothers family, where her reliability and kindness left a lasting impression. She later continued her career at Hannaford in Standish for 16 years. In both roles, Linda was known not only for her unwavering work ethic but also for the respect and care she extended to every colleague. She valued each person she worked with and took pride in being a dependable presence throughout her long and meaningful career.

At home, Linda found joy and fulfillment in her many passions. A true flower, tree, and plant enthusiast, she transformed her surroundings into a living sanctuary. Her home was adorned with over 200 lilac trees and more than 100 rose bushes-each one lovingly tended to and known by name. Walking through her gardens brought peace to all who visited, as Linda would share stories about each bloom with warmth and enthusiasm.

During the colder months, Linda turned to crafts that showcased her remarkable skill and patience. She created exquisite quilts and practiced crochet and knitting with care. Her hooked and braided rugs were admired for their impeccable beauty-each piece a testament to her artistry and attention to detail.

Linda also had a deep interest in genealogy. She spent countless hours exploring family history, weaving together generations of stories that enriched her understanding of her heritage and connection.

She is lovingly remembered by her husband of 59 years, Russell G. Swendsen; her sisters Karen Smith and Susan Martell; her children Rachel Swendsen; Daniel Swendsen and his partner Beth Roderick; Rebecca Swendsen; and her grandchildren: Russell D. Swendsen and his fiancé Marie Levesque; Abigail Swendsen and her fiancé Damian Mckeil; Nathaniel Hayes Swendsen; Gavin Lego and his partner Lily Martin. Linda also leaves behind great-grandchildren Grant, Ezekiel, Astrid, and Alice.

She was predeceased by her parents Curtis R. Martell and Shirley L. Martell; brothers Steven Martell and Brian Martell; father-in-law Russell F. Swendsen; mother-in-law Mary G. Swendsen; and brother-in-law Raymond Swendsen.

Linda's legacy lives on through the beauty she cultivated-in both the gardens she nurtured so lovingly and the lives she touched with grace. May her memory bring comfort to those who knew her. A Memorial Gathering will be held on June 22, 2025, from 03:00 PM to 05:00 PM at White Rock Community Clubhouse 34 Wilson Road, Gorham, Maine.