Carol Deanne Sweem was born on October 1st, 1936 to Dean and Carolyn Bortz in Farlin, Iowa. She graduated from Jefferson High School where her days were filled with playing drums in the band, working at Maid Rite and the Penny Store, and driving her friends around town in her old, pink Ford Coupe.
She became a Medical Technician and worked at the University of Iowa where she met the love of her life, Donald Sweem. Together, they raised three beautiful children: Cyndi, Steve, and Lori.
Carol and Don started their marriage at an Air Force base in Japan. Their experiences there inspired their love of travel. Carol was a devoted mother, and a dedicated volunteer. She held numerous offices within the Iowa Medical Auxiliary, helped wrangle 350 teenagers as a Valley High School Band Mom, and was a member of PEO.
Carol was an encourager, always full of joy and compassion. She was a friend to everyone, and it was so important to her to make sure everyone felt loved. She adored each of her 10 grandchildren and 4 great grandchildren, saying each one was unique and perfect.
Carol loved Jesus. She always said she would be full of joy and hugging Him as soon as she saw Him.
Carol is survived by her husband, Don, her daughter Cyndi (Jim) Miller, her son Steve (Sue) Sweem, her daughter Lori (Chad) Stevenson, grandchildren, Brian (Tonya) Miller, Matt Miller, Cari (Trey) Stubbs, Daniel Miller, Tyler (Bailey) Sweem, Kristin Sweem, Alex Sweem, Andy Stevenson, Molly Stevenson and Ryan Stevenson, great grandchildren: James and Olivia Miller, Calvin and Niall Stubbs, extended family and dear friends.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Carolyn and Dean Bortz, her brother Bob Bortz, her sister, Linda Snape-Newberry, and dear grandson, Alex Sweem.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made in Carol’s name to the charity of your choice. Some of Carol’s favorites were Valley Church Saints Alive (4343 Fuller Road, West Des Moines, IA 50265) and the Edgewater Employee Assistance Fund. (9225 Cascade Ave, West Des Moines IA 50266).
A memorial visitation for Carol will be held Saturday, April 27, 2024 from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at Valley Church, 4343 Fuller Road, West Des Moines, IA 50265, followed by a memorial service from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM.
A private family committal will take place at Resthaven Cemetery.
