Kate Avalie Swickard Obituary (1999 - 2010)

Funeral Services for Kate Swickard will begin Saturday, November 6, 2010 at 11:00 AM MST. To watch the service click on the play icon below. Kate Avalie Swickard passed from her parents’ arms into the Lords on November 1, 2010, following a lifelong illness. Her final days were spent surrounded by family and friends that Kate had touched in some small way throughout her short, yet very memorable life. Kate’s life would seem too short to many, but those who were touched by her understood that the quality of existence far exceeds the quantity of time in which one lives. Her gentle demeanor could melt the hearts of those around her and though she never spoke a word, her voice and thoughts could always be heard. Although Kate’s illness made her appear frail, she possessed strength, perseverance, and an ability to overcome incredible odds and physical challenges. With her courage she led us to believe that each day is a blessing and an opportunity to create lasting memories. She could spend hours cuddling close to those she loved so much. She enjoyed music, sleeping late, and reading stories. With Kate’s passing we remind others that her life is one to be celebrated. Although we will miss her every day, she will forever remain in our hearts. Through her teachings about life, we were able to create wonderful memories and it has been a privilege to be her parents. Kate leaves behind many wonderful caregivers that provided love and support that enhanced her quality of life. Kate’s love extends to her wonderful nurses at IHC Home Health. There is a special place in our hearts for Kate’s Pediatrician, Dr. Barbara Bean; because of her continual dedication, love and support, Kate was able to survive some of her toughest medical challenges. Kate will be dearly missed by all her special caregivers at the Kauri Sue Hamilton School, of particular note are her teachers of the last six years, Jeff Barkdull and Christy Heckel, who have become family to us. All of these special people, too numerous to mention, provided Kate with love and dignity in her life and also in her death. Kate is survived by her loving parents, Scott and Kristina Swickard of South Jordan, Utah; paternal grandparents Jules and Carol Swickard of Provo, Utah; maternal grandparents Michael and Herta Sanders of Orem, Utah; and her many aunts, uncles, and cousins who all loved her dearly. Each grandmother lovingly sacrificed of their time to help provide care for Kate. Of particular note is her “favorite” uncle Michael, who was instrumental in Kate’s care and who loved her dearly. She was predeceased by one week by her maternal great-grandmother Geneva “Avalie” Francisco; from who Kate was named after. A viewing will be held Friday, November 5, 2010, from 6-8 pm at Jenkins-Soffe Funeral Home, 1007 W. South Jordan Parkway,(10600 So.) South Jordan, Utah. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, November 6, 2010 at 11:00 am at the same location, preceded by an open-casket from 9:30 to 10:30 am.