Carole Swenson, beloved wife, mother, daughter, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend left us unexpectedly on December 31, 2007. Carole had no enemies and was loved by all those she touched.

Carole Lorraine Cathey was born on October 22, 1947 to Marquis Leonard and Dorothy Marie Cathey and spent her sixty joy-filled years as a Seattle resident. Carole graduated from West Seattle High School in 1965 and joined the phone company. She spent thirty years with US West Communications where she met dear friends and her husband and life companion, Gus Swenson. Gus and Carole were married on August 21, 1975 and spent thirty two wonderful, adventurous years together.

Carole loved the outdoors - she was always game for a walk, a hike, or a cross country ski adventure. She also was an avid Husky fan and was a season ticket holder for 30 years. She loved life, her family, and her friends. Carole enjoyed a day spent with her mom, Dorothy - shopping, gambling, having lunch, and capping the day with a martini and a game of cards. Carole was so proud of all of her grandchildren, and was a staunch supporter and spectator at all their events.

Carole was preceded in death by her beloved father and three very special friends - Mae, Sue, and Zee. She is survived by her husband Gus, daughter Shannon McLaughlin (Frank III), sons John Swenson (Lisa), Karl Swenson (Vicky), Bo Swenson (Carolyn), and grandchildren Frank IV, Anthony, Justin, Joel, Laura, Brittney, Jeremy, Annie, David, and Kristopher. Carole is also survived by her mother, Dorothy Cathey, Sisters Sharon Cathey, and Trish Welch, Brother Pat Cathey and numerous nieces and nephews. She is also survived by her dear friend Vivian Lair.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, January 5, 2007 at 11:00am at Holy Rosary Church in West Seattle located at 4139 42nd Avenue SW. A reception will follow at the church hall.

Carole will be so missed and is so loved.

Donations may be made in Carole's honor to The Children's Hospital Association / Fauntleroy.