Helen Swan

Helen F. Swan, a resident of Albuquerque for more than 55 years, died June 7, 2013, in her home under the care of her family following a brief illness. She was born in Sapulpa, Oklahoma, April 1, 1923 (No Foolin'!). The majority of her childhood years through college were spent in Sandpoint, Idaho. Following a June 19, 1944 wedding to Donald C. Swan (WWII Army Captain), they made their homes in Idaho and Colorado prior to settling in Albuquerque in December 1956. She was a gifted musician in piano and organ. She was active in the Rio Grande Jazz Society, Gamma Phi Beta Sorority and St. Andrew Presbyterian Church. Helen enjoyed reading, sports of all kinds, travel and a glass of wine with friends and family. Helen was preceded in death by her parents, Alta Meacham Foster, Clarence Jack Foster, step-father, Roger Morris, step-brother Robert Morris; daughter-in-law, Ann McGovern Swan, and husband, Donald C. Swan. She is survived by son, Donald F. (Duffy) Swan (Jean Ann), son, Larry Swan; grandchildren, Kimberly Swan Youngblood (Randy), Julie Anna Swan Keller (Chris), Lisa Swan, Scott Swan (Keri); seven great-grandchildren; one great-great grandson and the family of Regine Morris Record (Gerald) and numerous nieces and nephews. The family is concerned now about who will make huge quantities of potato salad and yummy flavors of homemade ice cream! Family, friends and neighbors will sorely miss Helen and her music. A memorial service will be held Saturday, June 15, at 4:00 pm, at St. Andrew Presbyterian Church with reception to follow. For those who may wish to do so, memorial donations may be made to Roadrunner Food Bank, St. Andrew Presbyterian Church, or Rio Grande Jazz Society.