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This blog is about our journey with life while living with cancer. John was diagnosed with Stage 4 colon cancer in February 2014. And so we walk "Side by Side." The title of the blog has been a phrase that Joyce and I have used for the past several years. It has been our way to deal with the reality that most plans and most days don't happen the way we had pictured it in our mind. And it has been our way to learn to anticipate the unexpected.

Click here for details of the June 3rd Memorial Celebration.

Monday, June 1, 2015

Preliminary Information

SWANK, John E., 68, of Piqua, died May 31, 2015. Son of the late Ross and Gladys (Guiller) Swank, he was born January 17, 1947 and grew up near Lewisburg. John was a licensed professional clinical counselor in Troy for nearly 30 years. From 1974 to 1984, he served as pastor of Trinity Lutheran Church in Convoy. He is survived by his wife of 45 years, Joyce (Braun) Swank of Piqua and daughter, Erin Joy Swank (Mike Wymore), of Aurora, Colorado, along with extended family and friends. A memorial celebration will be held Wednesday, June 3, 6 pm, at Nashville UCC Recreation Park. Donations may be made to Hospice of Dayton or a charity of choice. John's journal of his 16-month battle with colon cancer and details of the celebration of his life are available at itwonthappenthatway.blogspot.com. (Here!)

We're going to write a longer detailed bio here [now online], but wanted to get this out for now. If you're available, we'd love to see you on Wednesday. We're planning an outdoor short celebration around 6 pm (no worries if you arrive later), followed by a picnic. Hot dogs, brats, beverages and homemade ice cream will be provided. If you are local, we ask you to bring a side dish or dessert to share, and a lawn chair. Will provide directions, etc, soon.

2 comments:

  1. Dear Joyce and Erin,

    I would like to extend my sympathy to you both with great sorrow. I recall my professional experiences with your husband/father. He was by far one of the best counselors in the Miami County area, and I enjoyed our working relationship. I am deeply sorry for your loss.

    Sincerely,
    Dr. Ronald B. Pohlman

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  2. Russell and I just learned of John's death (and your journey with him thru this blog) in the Register-Herald. It is, or course, too late to join the celebration of his life on June 3, but we celebrate our own memories which span his lifetime.
    We'll appreciate reading the entire blog, but pause to send you our love. . .
    Melanie Robert

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