Barbara Mary Swanson, ‘Bobbi,’ left us peacefully on June 30, 2008, surrounded by her family, after a hard fought battle with arterial disease. She was born June 15, 1930, to Mike and Mary Radelich, both immigrants from Yugoslavia. She lived in Humboldt County all of her life.

Barbara was preceded in death by her parents Mike and Mary Radelich and sister Donna. She is survived by her husband, Bill, of 55 years; son Hans Swanson and daughter-in-law Cheryl and grandchildren Nicholas and Lindsey Swanson; daughter Connie Logan and grandson Wesley Logan. Also she leaves behind her sisters Carleen Pasquini and her family, Josie Malone, husband Earl and their family; brother Ed Radelich and wife Joyce and their family. She also leaves many grand nieces and nephews.

Her many interested included blackberry picking in July, wildflower gardening, and restoring antique furniture. She was an accomplished tole-painter and knitter. She created many beautiful Afghans, as well as painted furniture pieces. Barbara’s life with her husband Bill included many hunting and fishing trips and helping him with their construction business. She also loved going to Reno to play slot machines. She has a passion for miniature items and spent many weekends going to garage sales in search of them.

But most of all, her life was devoted to her family and home. Her grandchildren were her pride and joy, and she spent many happy days with them. She gave them all her love and constantly thought about them. As her niece Barby said, “She had a heart of gold.”

Barbara was a unique and modest person. She loved her family, all of them, expecting nothing in return. She loved her home and property above travel and other material things. She never held a grudge against anyone, which was one of her most cherished traits. Her love and concern was for her family, always before herself. She will be missed more than words can express.

Grandchildren Nicholas, Lindsey and Wesley will deeply cherish their memories of her, as will many of her lifelong friends Mona Conner, Dona Grace Levin, Glennie King, Babe Bott, Dorothy Dutra, Lenore Anvick, Elsie Kelly, Elaine Turner, Marilyn Gallagher, and many more.

Barbara’s family would like to thank Dr. Palmer for his excellent care, and all of the nurses, ICU nurses, St. Jo staff and David Grow. They spoke many kind words, all of which kept us going through difficult times.

A memorial service will be held on Tuesday, July 8, 2008, at 11 a.m. at Pierce Mortuary, 7th and H St., Eureka, Calif.