Garnet Swanson Szurek

Garnet Swanson Szurek, a resident of Valencia, Pennsylvania, passed away on October 22, 2025, at the age of 79. She was born in Bessemer, PA on December 13, 1945 to the late Paul and Margaret (Irwin) Swanson. Garnet was married to John Szurek for 57 years. He survives at home.

Garnet worked as a registered nurse all throughout the United States, including Washington D.C, San Francisco, San Antonio, Boston, and Virginia. After many years of nursing, she returned to school and graduated with her Master's degree in social work from Our Lady of the Lake University, San Antonio TX. She completed her career as a hospice social with Family and VITAS Hospices.

Garnet was a lover all things quilting, participating in many quilt guilds, quilt retreats, and quilt shows, winning awards for the quality and beauty of her work. One of her crowning achievements was having a vest she made published in a national magazine. Much of her work was donated to friends, family, and church projects.

In addition to working and quilting, Garnet was a loving mother who spent her time cooking and caring for her children, both of whom swam competitively through high school with her tireless support. She also enjoyed travel throughout the US, Europe, and Hawaii, as well as singing in the church choir and reading.

In addition to her husband John, Garnet is survived by her sons, Scott "Skip" (Jami) and Michael (Amanda) Szurek; grandchildren Devin, Jordyn, Jade, Nathan, and Mara.

A Memorial Service will be held for Garnet at 10:30 AM on Saturday, November 1, 2025 at Church of the Redeemer, 5700 Forbes Avenue, Squirrel Hill, followed by lunch in the parish hall.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Garnet's name to The Parkinson's Foundation, www.parkinson.org