Colleen Edith Swift-Schafer

Born Colleen Edith Krause on April 29, 1929, in Polson, MT, she was the youngest of five children. Colleen embraced the joys and challenges of life when she married Archie Swift on March 1, 1947. Together, they raised four children and were married until Archie's passing on May 24, 1985. Colleen found love again with Stanley Schafer, and they were married on October 29, 1988, sharing life’s journey until his passing on January 30, 2008. She is survived by her beloved children Jan, Kerry, and Randy, along with her cherished stepchildren Patty, Susan, and Sally. Though she was preceded in death by her oldest daughter, Trudy, Colleen's spirit lives on in her eight grandchildren and ten great-grandchildren, with one more blessing on the way in July.

Colleen's passions for gardening, sewing, and quilting reflected her nurturing spirit. Dedicated to serving others, she volunteered for various organizations and held board and committee positions with the Aid Association for Lutherans and Good Shepherd. A lifelong Girl Scout and leader, she inspired countless young lives. Colleen thrived in the great outdoors, enjoying hiking, backpacking, and volunteering at Valley Camp, where her love for nature and community shone brightly. Family was at the heart of her existence, and she lovingly organized many reunions and outings.

Baptized and a devoted Christian in the Lutheran Church, Colleen carried her faith as a guiding light throughout her life. She held a steadfast belief in the joyful reunions awaiting her with family and friends in heaven.