Jean Shirley (Thompson) Swenby

Jean Shirley (Thompson) Swenby, a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and devoted nurse, passed away peacefully on August 27, 2025, at the age of 96. Born on February 22, 1929, in Detroit, Michigan, to Iver and Gena Thompson, Jean was the third of fifteen children and the eldest girl in her large and loving family. Her childhood was spent on the family farm in Woodville, Wisconsin, where she often reminisced about her formative years at a one-room schoolhouse and the camaraderie of her siblings. 

Jean harbored dreams of becoming a fashion designer and even considered serving as a nurse in the Navy, inspired by her friend Paulene. Ultimately, she found her true calling in nursing, completing her Registered Nurse training at the Bethesda Hospital School of Nursing in St. Paul, Minnesota, in September 1950. Shortly thereafter, she married her soulmate, Vearl Maynard Swenby, underlining a deep love that would last a lifetime. Together, Vearl and Jean raised four children-David, Vicki, John, and Elizabeth-who brought immeasurable joy and laughter into her life. 

Jean's legacy extends through her grandchildren: Christopher, Heather, Danielle, Madison, Katelyn, Troy, Chase, and ten great-grandchildren, as well as her step-children Connie, Kerrie, Kelly, Brett, and Kristi, and their families. Jean is further survived by siblings Eileen Duvall, Linda Mulheron, Bruce Thompson, Jerry Thompson; in-laws Kay Thompson, Shelda Thompson, Lori Thompson, Audrey Thompson,Butch Schmidt, many other loving relatives.

She was preceded in death by loving husband, Vearl Swenby, parents Iver and Gena Thompson; also 1 sister, 9 brothers, 6 sisters-in-law, 1 brother-in-law and 2 nephews.

Jean's passion for sewing brought creativity and love into her family. Though she did not pursue a career in fashion design, she often indulged her artistic spirit through sewing and crafting. Her expertise ranged from creating custom outfits for her children to designing wedding dresses and christening gowns, including special garments for families in need. Her sewing projects were not just a hobby; they were gifts from her heart, cherished by all who received them. In addition to her contributions in her personal life, Jean's nursing career spanned various settings, including Baldwin, Wisconsin, and Indiana, where she touched countless lives. Her ability to care for others was particularly poignant as she served as a hospice nurse to her husband, Vearl, during his illness. 

Jean was an adventurer at heart, embracing travel and golfing with Vearl. They explored the world together, with memorable trips through Europe and scenic drives across the United States, forging lasting family memories along the way. She cherished every moment spent with family, whether on the golf course at Franklin Country Club or gathering together for celebrations. A remarkable woman, Jean held family at her core and nurtured connections that will be celebrated for generations. Her vibrant spirit will be remembered in the stories shared, the laughter echoed, and the love that continues to flourish among her family. 

We will be bringing her home to Baldwin for graveside service, at Peace Lutheran Cemetery 2084 County Rd N, Baldwin, Wisconsin, Saturday, September 6th, 2pm, followed by a remembrance gathering at Phoenix Bar & Grill 2095 10th Ave, Baldwin, at 4:30pm.