Barbara (Barbie) Kay Swanson was born 1938 in Northern Iowa and died December 27, 2022 in Westminster, CO.

Barbie grew up on a dairy farm with her parents and 3 brothers. This is where she learned to love cooking and baking. In her freetime Barbie played basketball on her high school team, Waterville High School, and was known to be quite feisty despite being 5’2”.

After graduation Barbie began working at Collins Radio in Cedar Rapids, IA. This is where she caught Robert (Bob) Swanson’s eye. It was love at first sight for Bob. This led to many dates dancing the night away. After he won her heart, she was truly devoted to him. The two were married in 1959 and had their first child, Dawn in 1960, followed by Robin in 1962, Michelle in 1965, and Stacy in 1973.

Barbie, Bob, and Dawn made the move to Colorado in 1961 and soon thereafter purchased their first family home in Northglenn, CO. Where they raised their four daughters. In 1963 she became the proud wife of a Denver Police Officer.

Barbie was a do-er. If you wanted something done everyone knew Barbie would help take care of it! She had active roles in her church serving on various committees, she volunteered at her daughters’ schools (even when the daughter was the classroom teacher and no longer the student), she was a loving mother and everyone’s biggest cheerleader. Barbie always had your back! Barbie was also blessed with a green thumb and always knew the tricks for growing more tomatoes or how to transplant flowers. She and Bob traveled most parts of the world and were blessed with many unique experiences. They were lucky to enjoy 27 cruises with each other. During the cold CO months you’d find Barbie and Bob in Mission, TX. She would keep herself busy Tole Painting, knitting hats, or involved in some other crafty hobby. Most will fondly remember Barbie for her beautiful smile and also her delicious pies. Her pies earned the highest bids at church auctions!

Barbie is survived by her loving husband Bob, her four daughters and sons in-law, eight grandchildren and one great grandson, three brothers and sisters in-law, numerous nieces and nephews. She will be greatly missed by all. 

In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund has been set up in her name at Good Shepherd Presbyterian Church, 10785 Melody Dr., Northglenn, CO 80234.

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