Judy (McDonald) Swaren

Donalda

Description

Life and Work

On short notice, a mother called into work will require someone to care for the children. A surrogate mother and grandmother to many children, that someone is often Judy Swaren. up on the farm before studying as a legal secretary. She returned to the farm in 1963 when she married John Swaren. They had five children.

For 13 years, she has organized the Annual Bench Fair in Donalda and previously managed the Donalda Farmers' Market.

Involved with the Agriculture Society, the library, the church, and the Donalda and District Museum, Judy says she plans to reduce her activity, "but when I drop one thing, something else pops up."

Memoirs

Letter of Appreciation by Hollis Komishke

On short notice, a mother called into work will require someone to care for the children. A surrogate mother and grandmother to many children, that someone is often Judy Swaren.

A native Albertan, Judy McDonald grew up on the farm before studying as a legal secretary. She returned to the farm in 1963 when she married John Swaren. The Swarens have five children and three grandchildren.

For 13 years, she has organized the Annual Bench Fair in Donalda and also manages the Donalda Farmers' Market. She works with the Agriculture Society, the Library, the Church, and the Donalda and District Museum. In her "leisure time", Judy sews, crochets, reads and floor curls.

She says she plans to reduce her community activities and the enormous commitment of volunteer hours, "but when I drop one thing, something else pops up." Judy Swaren's work and dedication are part of who we are in Donalda and district.

I have known Judy for thirty years. In that time she has shown me what dedication is. When her children were small she taught Sunday School, became a Cub Scout leader, and was active in school parent council so that she could share in her children's interests. As her children grew, Judy volunteered in community affairs so that her children would have a better place to live.

She has raised not only her own children, but has sat for countless others, including mine. I believe my life has become truly enriched because of Judy.


Associated Member Museum: Donalda and District Museum