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In memory of
Pauline Kalish Swim
June 18, 1927 - March 31, 2020
Jun 18, 1927 - Mar 31, 2020
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Pauline's obituary
Pauline's loving and carefree childhood was interrupted by World War II when, at age twelve, she was evacuated from London to Hertfordshire while her dear Mum stayed in London during the German bombing campaign known as the Blitz. It was a time she never forgot. She often recalled how during evacuation, she and many other children learnt to grow up quickly without the support of their parents. The detachment and self-dependency is likely to have established her iron will and steadfastness.
On July 7, 1945, Pauline married American serviceman William Murray Swim in London (Kilburn), England. She was one of the thousands of G.I. brides voyaging from England on HMS Queen Mary from Southhampton in England to post-war marital reunion in New York City in America. Thereafter the couple traveled to Florida where they lived in Miami, with their first residence within walking distance of Miami Beach. Life was good for them both and in April 1954, they welcomed daughter Deb, their only child. Pauline’s grandson Allan also brought her much joy. Pauline never forgot her family roots and kept in regular touch with her parents and her many cousins in England and France.
Pauline worked hard to contribute to the family income. Alongside an engaging personality and a fervent energy, she had a strong determination to succeed which together made her a real go-getter and trailblazer for women in business. As a young woman in England, she worked as a “Silver Service*” waitress and as a salesperson (often to American G.I.’s in London) for “Rolls Razor**”. In Miami she earned an Associate Degree in Fashion Design at the local college (Lindsey Hopkins) while working as a waitress (including jobs Howard Johnsons and the Doral Country Club). In later years she was very successful in her work in Real Estate where she had earned certification first as Salesperson and next as Broker.
It was during her work in Real Estate that she met and grew close to her dear friend Henry (Enrique) Benet, who was born in Spain and who, like Pauline, had relocated to Florida from “across the pond”. They shared many interests, especially a love of travel and fine dining. Henry would help Pauline to learn his native Spanish whilst she returned the favor with English via her combined US/London accent.
Pauline was very intelligent and engaging. Her consistent good humor ensured she was never short of friends; while her strong will made her a force to be reckoned with. She enjoyed and regularly played Bridge and Scrabble. She loved a challenge and could be fiercely competitive too. Pauline’s affectionate nature was obvious to those who knew her well. She took great joy in giving and liked nothing more than treating those she loved.
Those who may wish to make a memorial donation are asked to consider the Hospice House in Tallahassee, Florida where Pauline was lovingly comforted and cared for in her last days: https://www.bigbendhospice.or…
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Footnotes
* Silver service is a highly professional English style of serving food: https://poloandtweed.com/blog…; https://www.youtube.com/watch…
** Rolls Razor is a high-quality English safety razor: https://www.youtube.com/watch….
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Created with love by
Deb Swim.
