We Remember

TAYLOR-SWABY, Andrea Christine

January 19, 1976 — July 29, 2016

If you were fortunate enough to know Andrea, you know she hated anything sugar-coated (unless it was powdered sugar on her flourless chocolate cake). So here’s what happened. Andrea developed a rare, aggressive breast cancer. She and Todd faced it head on. For 10 months, they did every possible treatment while, somehow, still getting on with the joyful business of life. Andrea died at home, her soulmate at her side. The solace is in how she lived. Andrea was born and raised in Kelowna. After a stint in Whistler, she landed in Vancouver where she spent 10 years working and collecting an impressive catalogue of stories and (mis)adventures to share at future dinner parties. In 2005, she returned to the Valley to follow her passion for wine. Turns out, she found another passion that year: Todd. Before long, they began a new chapter, with Andrea as Todd’s partner and mother to three sons then aged 2, 4, and 10. Her willingness to embrace all four Swaby boys, Brady-bunch style, says so much about Andrea’s open heart. (Not to mention her remarkable courage!) In 2014, on a magical day in Mexico, they added husband and wife to their story. From childhood, there was little that Andrea set out to do that she did not quickly master: softball, skiing, volleyball, dancing, cards…with one notable exception. Golf! She was a loving and hands-on mom, talented chef, fierce competitor, and enthusiastic participant in everything, especially the Fests: Wine, October, & Rib! She was respected across the wine and hospitality industries for her work ethic, candour, and leadership. She was truly beautiful, inside and out. Left to remember her radiant smile, wicked sense of humour, and the sheer force of her spirit: her heart’s true love, Todd Swaby; their sons Jaedon, Keaston, & Ashton; mother Cheryl Taylor; father Bob Taylor (Carrie); sister Ashley Brain; brother Troy Zohner; mother-in-law Shirley Ann Swaby; and a host of admirers including aunties, uncles, cousins, and friends. There will be a private gathering (read: party!) to honour her life and a charity in her name is being established. Details to follow. In the meantime, celebrate her memory with a glass of bubbly and your favourite cheese. Cheers to you, our beloved Andrea, your light shines on! Keep in touch! Please share your stories and photos at: RememberingAndreaTaylor@gmail.com.

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Service
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