July 29, 1952 - July 12, 2009
Jill Margaret (Swanson) Pekala Obituary
Jill Margaret (Swanson) Pekala succumbed peacefully to her eight year brave and inspirational battle with breast cancer on July 12, 2009. Born on July 29, 1952 in Valley City, ND to Raymond and Perle (Portney) Swanson. Mother of Krystal, Hayley and Joseph Pekala Jr. Grandmother of Trent Elijah Bain. Sister of Wayne Swanson, Barbara Gilcrest, Gena Burns, Rita McIntire and Linda Bauman. Jill grew up in Ritzville and Spokane, WA. She graduated from North Central High School in 1970 and later in life took classes at Spokane Falls Community College. Jill lived in Eagle River, AK from 1977-1982 where she had two daughters, and then moved back to Spokane where she had one son. Jill loved her work at Group Health for the last 18 years, where she had many friends who loved her dearly. She worked up until three weeks before her death. Although rheumatoid arthritis and almost a decade of cancer wore down her body, she never let the pain drown out her amazing spirit. Jill always offered a tender smile to reassure those around her and always cared for others before thinking of herself. Even while working full time, Jill still made time for volunteer work at the House of Charity in recent years. She attended Life Center Church. Jill loved music and had a deep appreciation for the arts, which she shared with and passed on to her children. Jill loved her grandson, Trent, very much, as he brought her so much joy. Jill was the kindest and most loving mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend to so many. She has been described by many who knew her as one of the most caring, loving and honest people they have known. With her compassion, her beautiful blue eyes, and her warm, radiating smile, Jill truly had the face and heart of an angel. When Jill learned on April 16th (also her mother's birthday) that she had little time left here on this earth, these words were given to her in a daily devotional reading that she held very dear to her heart: "I am leaving you with a gift - peace of mind and heart! And the peace I give isn't fragile like the peace the world gives. So don't be troubled or afraid." John 14:27. Jill is at peace. The light that Jill brought to this world will not be extinguished with her passing. We will all remember her with deep love and fondness. Our Angel has gone Home! Jill's memorial service is to be held on July 25, 2009, 11:00 A.M. at New Heights (the old Life Center Bldg.), 708 W. Nora, 99205.
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