Juanita Lois Swaim left us on September 26, 2022. She was born in Chicago, Illinois on October 9, 1934 to Arlene and William “Buddy” Schackart. When her father left and her mother had to take on the role of sole provider, Juanita had to step up and help care for her younger brothers, Ronald (1937-2016) and Kenneth (1938-1974). They were so close they were known as “Juanita and her boys” in the neighborhood. It was probably here, that her love and focus on family began.
Although she was an excellent student, she left high school to work full time to help the family. After several jobs she finally found a job in key punch with Wisconsin Steel Mill, where she worked for 25 years. Computers were a new wonder in those days, and Juanita was able to see them develop; during her time at the mill. She made many life-long friends, who became an extended family for her.
In 1959, she gave birth to Matthew (1959-2009) and began her most precious role as “Mom”. Arlene joined the family in 1962. When her marriage to Bill ended in 1966, she was determined to ensure her children didn’t suffer; where she could prevent it. She somehow managed her schedule to be done at work by the time Matthew and Arlene were home from school and still take overtime when it was available. One of her proudest achievements was a vacation she planned for her little family when she had only been driving for two years. She drove two small children from Chicago to Colorado stopping at the Grand Canyon, Painted Desert, Durango and Silverton in a second hand Volvo with no air conditioner, all before the advent of the super highway!
In 1980 she moved to Tucson, Arizona; to be closer to her mother. The job market was difficult at that time and she had a few tough years, before finding a position; with Sundt Corp. She loved working at Sundt, where she once again; was able to build some wonderful friendships. Wherever she drove around Tucson she would point to a building and proudly announce, “Isn’t that a nice building? We built that.” It wasn’t until after leaving Sundt, though; that Juanita found the work that really touched her soul. She began volunteering at the Salvation Army Temple Corp, and within a short time; she accepted a job with The Army. She performed a variety of tasks, from arranging activities for the women’s group, assisting with the Sub Zero program offering warm and safe shelter to the city’s homeless, and organizing the annual kettle ministry. From childhood, she was always committed to her relationship with Jesus, and in The Army; she was finally able to devote her time to serving Him as she served those around her.
Juanita loved her family with her whole heart. Over the years she opened her home to her father, her brother, one nephew and three of her grandchildren when they were either in need or transition.
She leaves behind her daughter and son-in-law, Arlene and Cecil Lucas, her grandchildren Jacob (Crystal) Swaim, Hollie (Peter) Zemiatiatis, Bethany Lucas, Rachel (Josh) Calvert, Aaron (Camille) Swaim, and Hannah Swaim, as well as five “greats”, her niece and nephews, and her sister-in-law, Millie. The hole she leaves can never be filled, but we know she is waiting to welcome us Home someday.
A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, October 22 at 11:00 at New Life Wesleyan
Church, 8900 E Golf Links Rd. Flowers can be delivered to the church after 9:00 a.m. that morning.
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