Claris Swenby

Deerfield- Claris Swenby, age 96, passed away peacefully on Thursday, June 3, 2010 at Swifthaven Assisted Living Facility in Edgerton, where she had resided the past seven months.  She was the second oldest of nine children born to Albert and Helga (Johnson) Nelson.  Claris married Larry Swenby on June 16, 1951, he preceded her in death on December 26, 1993.   Claris graduated from Deerfield High School in 1932 and attended Whitewater State Teachers College for one year and was issued a license to teach in a rural school.  That was the beginning of a 45 year teaching career22 years in area country schools and 23 years at Cambridge Elementary.  Claris truly loved teaching and Mrs. Swenby was a much loved, much requested teacher.  She eventually earned a bachelors degree from Whitewater State University and never lost her love for learning taking many summer courses, not because she had to but because she wanted to.  She loved to read which kept her mind extremely sharp until just a few months before her death.  Claris was very proud of her Norwegian heritage and the town of Deerfield where she lived most of her life.  This was evident by her handwritten book, ""Family Memories,"" in which she told her favorite family stories as well as historical facts of the family and the town she loved so much.   Claris is survived by sisters-in-law, Helen Nelson of Chandler, AZ, Nelda Nelson of Phoenix, AZ and Arlene Nelson of Cottage Grove; and brother-in-law, George Staff of Edgerton.  She is further survived by 20 nieces and nephews who were very, very special to her.   Claris was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; and brothers and sisters, Vivian Thronson, Glen Nelson, Lorraine Staff, Eugene Nelson, Elayne Krogan, Lowell Nelson, Everett Nelson and Royal Nelson.   Funeral Services will be held at 11:00 AM on Tuesday, June 8, 2010 at Deerfield Lutheran Church, 206 S. Main Street, Deerfield, with Rev. Larry Sexe officiating.  Burial will follow in Deerfield Lutheran Cemetery.  A luncheon for family and friends will follow the burial, at the church.  Visitation will be held from 10:00 AM until the time of services on Tuesday.  Memorials may be made to Deerfield Lutheran Church.