It is with sadness that our mother Barbara Swales passed away on Monday February 1st, 2021 at Spencer House Orillia., in her 95th year. Barbara is leaving behind a lifetime of memories that are shared and cherished by her family and friends. Mom was born on May 29, 1926 in Cardiff Wales. She told her stories of what it was like growing up in wartime England, and it wasn't hard to see how she became the strong woman that she was. Mom joined the WRENS in England at the age of 19 and that is where she met her handsome naval husband Gordon T. Swales (predeceased). Three months later they married and Dad had to leave and go back to Canada leaving his new bride behind for a year. When reunited, Mom and Dad moved around a lot with Dad's job, having 4 children being and will be Forever Remembered by Graham (Bev) of Orillia, David (Patricia) of Westville, N.S., James (Jennie) of Barrie and Della (Derek) of Alliston. This resulted in 11 grandchildren Ryan, Thomas, Jonathan, Serina, Amanda, Laura, Sara, Tyler, Carter, Lyndsey, Sarah and 12 great grandchildren Christian (predeceased), Melissa Austin, Isaac, Abby, Spencer, Fletcher, Olivia, Maddie, Brody, Kya and Addison. Barbara is survived by her brother Graham (Frankie) Beavis of Manchester, England and sister Vera Burke of New Zealand. She is predeceased by her 2 brothers Lester and Wally. Although difficult at times Mom and Dad were married 49 years before Dad's passing on January 27, 1997. The last 15 years, mom made her home in Orillia where she lived with her son Graham and daughter-in-law Beverley Swales. Mom was truly the backbone of our family and I hope she knew how much each of us loved, respected and appreciated her. She is only a "thought" away. The family would like to thank all the staff at Spencer House for all their compassionate care over the years. Service notes A Private Mass of Christian Burial was held at Guardian Angels Church, Orillia. Followed by cremation. In the spring the family will have a Celebration of Barbara's Life at St. Margaret's Cemetery, Midland. If desired, memorial donations to choice. Arrangements entrusted to the Mundell Funeral Home.
