Beverley Aiko Swartz (née Shiga)
January 5, 2024
Passed away peacefully with family by her side on Friday, January 5, 2024, at the age of 78, following a long battle with cancer. Beloved wife of Ronald for 53 years. Loving mother of Diana (Jarrad), Kimberley, and Trevor. Cherished Nan of Justin, Asher, and Arjen. Devoted sister of Catherine (Peter). Predeceased by her brothers, Ronald (Louise) and Bruce (Mary).
Bev is remembered for her warm, loving spirit and playful sense of humour. Bev’s compassion served her well as a nurse in psychiatry, with her most rewarding years spent caring for youth at the Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario in Ottawa. A nature-lover, she enjoyed birdwatching and gardening. In retirement, Bev and Ron enjoyed travelling with loved ones to faraway places; Fiji being her favourite destination. Bev spent her final days at St Joseph’s Parkwood Institute under the exceptional care of the palliative care health team.
Cremation has taken place. A memorial service will be conducted at Riverside United Church, 695 Riverside Drive, London on Thursday, January 11, 2024 at 2:00 p.m., with visitation one hour prior. To view the livestream service click here
Those wishing to make a donation in memory of Bev are asked to consider LHSF – Ovarian Cancer Program or St. Joseph’s Health Care Foundation – Parkwood Institute.
Leave a tribute for Beverley Aiko Swartz (née Shiga)
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It is rare that your sister is also your lifelong best friend - my mom and my Aunt Bev had that most special and precious of bonds, a connection, love and shared family life that stretched over nearly eight decades. So of course, when Aunt Bev and Uncle Ron decided years ago to move to London, it felt like “why did they wait so long..?” I always knew when Bev called, because my mom’s laugh would ring through the house, the inside jokes they shared, the reminiscing and the playful egging-on, were some of the hallmarks of their incredibly close, joyful and supportive relationship. With our mothers so close, our cousins Kim and Diana, and Jarrad, as well as Justin, Asher, and Arjen were never far from our thoughts, and the stories and reflections from Bev and my mom of their latest adventures and milestones were ever present in our home. Bev’s life was a gift to all of us; a beautiful, caring soul, her humour and good nature could always lift the mood and reminded me not to take things so seriously. I saw my Aunt Bev as the calm, caring and loving centre of her family, and a steadfast, loyal sister and best friend to my mom. Her example of courage, love, acceptance and grace in the face of a terminal illness has transformed many of us. It has inspired me to live more as Bev did, always finding joy in the present moment and surrounded by the people she loved. You will be missed beyond measure, Aunt Bev - your love will always be with us. -Jessica Canham
To Kim, Diana, Ron and family. I am so very sorry for your loss. Spending as much time as I did at your house growing up, I have many memories of Bev, including her peanut butter blossom cookies (I still have the recipe!), but the thing that stands out the most was her infectious laugh and big smile. She will be dearly missed, and I am thinking of you all at this very difficult time.
Dear Ron, Kim, Diana, and Family Our deepest condolences and caring thoughts of sympathy for the loss of Bev/your Mom. Each of us will hold the memories that we shared with her close to our heart. Bev was always thinking of others, and was first to put their needs before her own. She touched the lives and hearts of all with whom she came in contact and will be missed by so many. With our love and condolences, Shari, Andrew, Jérémy, and Nicolas
Dear Ron and family, My deepest condolences are extended to you and your loved ones as you say good-bye to Bev. May you find a measure of comfort in your love of her and memories you've made through the years that are forever in your hearts. So sorry for your loss. Thinking of you, Krista
Services for Beverley Aiko Swartz (née Shiga)
Visitation will be held at:
Riverside United Church
695 Riverside Drive,
London, Ontario
January 11, 2024 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm
Memorial Service will be held at:
Riverside United Church
695 Riverside Drive,
London, Ontario
January 11, 2024 2:00 pm
Additional Service information
To view the Livestream service click here
Dear Ron and family, I was so sorry to learn of Bev’s passing. When we worked together Ron, it was clear to me that you shared a deep love. My deepest condolences to you during this difficult time. My thoughts and prayers are with you. Penny
~ Penny Clark