Audrey Virginia Swanson

Audrey Virginia Swanson, 102, of Duluth MN, died Thursday, October 19, 2023 at Beehive Assisted Living with her family by her side.  Audrey was born on February 11, 1921 in Monroeville, Indiana to Grover and Leona Grabner.  She was one of nine children.

Audrey graduated valedictorian of her high school.  She went on to get a Bachelor of Science degree in Education from Indiana State Teachers College.  She worked as a high school teacher until enlisting in the Army.  Audrey served her country in the Women’s Army Corps where she completed Physical Therapy training and was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant.  Audrey met her husband, a fellow serviceman while in the Army. They were married in 1945 and went on to have five children. After leaving the army, Audrey taught school for many years at West Jr High until her retirement.
Audrey had a strong Christian faith and love for Jesus which she shared with others.  She was involved in her church teaching Sunday School, bible studies, serving on hospitality committees and as a deaconess.  
Audrey loved and cherished her family deeply. She regularly had people for dinners, prepared large holiday meals and valued time together.  She was generous, loving, and welcoming to all.  She enjoyed puzzles in all forms, sewing, crocheting, cross stitching and most crafts.
Audrey is preceded in death by her parents, her husband, Harold, daughter, Nancy Maki; son, Richard Swanson.  Audrey is survived by her children, Buzz (Colleen) Swanson, Pam (Larry) Baumgart and Tim (Sara) Swanson; a brother, Loren (Colleen) Grabner; a sister, Susie (Dick) Darras; grandchildren, Clay (Stacie), Kent (Dara), Cammy (Brian), Jason (Kelly), Noelle (Bruce), Angie (Abel), Michael, Alicia(Dan), Missy (Brett), Kristy (Joe), Scott (Christine), Jack, Nate, Stephanie (Ben), Jeremy. 30 great grandchildren, many nieces, nephews, extended family and friends.