Denyse Carol "Grandmam" Swenson passed away on Thursday, September 15. She was born February 27, 1934 in Minot, North Dakota. Denyse graduated from Minot high school and went on to attend the University of North Dakota where she graduated with a bachelor degree in nursing in 1956. It was at the University, Denyse met Karl Swenson, her husband, partner, and soul mate. Karl was a waiter in her sorority house and his fraternity was often partnered with her sorority for events and activities.

Denyse and Karl were married on May 27, 1956, beginning a partnership lasting 58 years. Whether it was playing golf, riding motorcycles, sailing the Caribbean with friends, traveling to the Rider Cup in Spain, or merely spending time together on a day to day basis, their closeness and sense of joy in each other was evident to all.

Denyse and Karl were members of Champions Golf Club for over 40 years, Denyse was active in the Ladies Golf Association, playing golf every Tuesday with friends and of course, playing gin rummy every Tuesday afternoon.  She was always the "life of the party" at every social function.

Denyse's devotion to family was an enormous part of her life. Her innate sense of wisdom and kind, generous spirit guided her children and grandchildren in every aspect of life. Her home was a magnet for huge family gatherings every holiday, sometimes over 30 family members.

She will be sorely missed.

Surviving her are children Karla Ramsey, Karen Barnett, and Steven Swenson, and daughter-in law Chris Swenson and sons-in law Gill Barnett and James Ramsey. She is also survived by her sister Nada Butz, 11 grandchildren and 8 great grandchildren.  She was preceded by her husband Karl Swenson, her parents George and Carrie Osdoba, and daughter Susan Swenson.

The family would also like to recognize Grandmam's caregivers, Carmen, Martha, Elvia, Gina, and Nancy who not only physically cared for her but were companions and friends.