Diane Swanson

Diane June Swanson, 86, of Albany, NY, passed away peacefully on Thursday, February 27, 2025, surrounded by loving family. Born on September 19, 1938, to Wanda Morehouse-Giddings and Edwin Giddings, Diane spent her childhood years in Defiance, OH, and graduated from Defiance High School in 1956. She continued her education at Defiance College and Bowling Green State University, where she laid the foundation for a life filled with purpose, love, and devotion to her family and community.

Diane married Lt. Alan Swanson in 1959. As a proud United States Air Force military wife, she lived a life of adventure, relocating across numerous locations throughout the United States and Europe. Along the way she made many lasting friendships and always found ways to serve others. In addition to her role as a military spouse and devoted mother, Diane held occupations that took many paths, including working in a school district in Nebraska, serving in a forensic crime lab in Wyoming, and eventually retiring from the First Federal Bank of Defiance in Ohio.

Diane's greatest joy was her family. She is survived by her beloved children, Marc Swanson (Dessie) and Linda Janenka (Vince), her two cherished grandchildren, Sarah Swanson-Predovich and Matthew Janenka, as well as nieces, nephews, and cousins.

After retiring, Diane moved to Albany, NY, to be closer in location to her daughter. Her passions through the years have included Bible studies and fellowships, gardening, crafts, decorating, and above all, spending time with those she loved. Diane bloomed wherever she was planted and made friends wherever she went. She had a gift of hospitality and found joy in entertaining and creating wonderful meals for family and friends. She was always well known for her beautiful smile which could light up a room.

The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to her exceptional and loving caregivers at Eddy Village Green Nursing Home in Cohoes, NY, as well as to Community Hospice for their compassionate and supportive care, and to Judy Younger, for her unwavering friendship and support to Diane through the years, both near and far.

Diane will be laid to rest alongside her parents in a private family ceremony in Defiance, OH.

In remembrance of Diane, we take comfort in knowing that her love and light will continue to guide us, and her memory will forever live on in our hearts.

Those who desire may make memorial contributions to the Community Hospice Foundation online or by mailing to 310 South Manning Blvd, Albany NY 12208.