We Remember

SWAIM, Norma Jean

August 21, 1931 — June 10, 2025

It is with great love and admiration that we announce the loss of Norma Jean Swaim, who peacefully passed away in her sleep, in the comfort of her home on June 10, 2025, at age 93.

Though Norma has now gone to be with the Lord, she leaves behind a wealth of love, including her four sons Tim (Jean), Stephen; Daniel, and Nathan; daughter Michele (Max); multiple grandchildren and great-grandchildren; and many close friends from the Meadowlarks Country Club, including her dear friends Phyllis Frew and Ellen Batigan.

She now goes to join her husband of 53 years, Ross Swaim; sister Alice; mother Carrie; and father Roy, who all passed before her.

Norma was born on August 21, 1931, in Des Moines, Iowa, and lived a life full of purpose, creativity, and love. It was in Iowa that she met her beloved husband, Ross, and together they began building a beautiful life and family. The couple welcomed five children into the world, with their first three sons born in Iowa before making a courageous move to Canada in 1957. They initially settled in Westwold, BC, and eventually made their home in Kamloops, where Ross built the house they would raise their family in. Norma worked hard over the years as a bookkeeper, office manager, and accountant, roles that reflected her keen mind and dedication.

In 1988, Norma and her family relocated to Kelowna, so Ross could help build a church, a reflection of their deep Christian faith. They settled into a trailer on Old Vernon Road, a cozy home where Norma would remain until her passing. After losing Ross in 2002, Norma continued to live with grace and resilience. She was a devoted and inspiring mother, open-minded, generous, and kind to everyone she met. Norma was firm in her belief that “strangers were just friends you haven’t met yet.” She had a passion for flowers, whether they were real or artificial, and her daughter’s gift of light-up flowers brought her such joy and added a cheerful splash of colour to her home. A talented artist, Norma especially loved oil painting and was known for her breathtaking landscapes and her delicate one-stroke floral work.

She also had an adventurous side and loved taking road trips, especially through the States. She fondly remembered driving the family to California in their station wagon, passing through the Red Wood Forest and visiting loved ones along the way. Even later in life, Norma continued her solo trips back to Iowa until mobility challenges made travel more difficult. One particularly special trip was when her granddaughter Jen joined her on the journey—an unforgettable time for the two of them to bond, laugh, and share stories. Somewhere along the way, they even managed to “find sushi in the Rockies,” a quirky and memorable detail that perfectly captured Norma’s love of adventure and delight in the unexpected.  She was an incredible woman—wise, creative, loving, and deeply rooted in her values. Her guidance, strength, and gentle spirit made her not only a remarkable mother but also a cherished mentor to her children. Norma’s presence was a gift, and her love, kindness, and creativity will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

A Memorial Service will be held on Friday, June 20, 2025, at 1:00 pm, at located at Mission Creek Alliance Church, 2091 Springfield Rd, Kelowna, BC.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the charity or church of your choice.

If you wish to send a condolence, post photos, or share a memory, please scroll down the page to the area called “Condolences”.

Service
Friday, June 20, 2025, at 1:00 pm

Location
Mission Creek Alliance Church, 2091 Springfield Road, Kelowna, BC

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Service Information

Service Details


The service for SWAIM, Norma Jean is scheduled for Friday, June 20, 2025, at 1:00 pm. Below you will find the map for the service location and the contact information should you have any questions.

Address & Contact for Service Location:

Mission Creek Alliance Church, 2091 Springfield Road, Kelowna, BC

2091 Springfield Road, Kelowna, BC

Phone:

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None.

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Condolences

  • Kiyoshi Robson says:
    June 17, 2025 at 11:55 am

    Sending you all lots of love during this time Swaims! I’ll always remember Norma’s genuine laughter

    Reply
  • Joanne Hortensius says:
    June 19, 2025 at 2:01 pm

    The world has lost a truly unique individual. Your family has lost a great source of love, inspiration, and comfort. God be with you all.

    Reply

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