Obituary of Louise Edwardina Switzer

Louise Switzer was born right here in Dawson Creek March 12, 1951 to Albin and Ida Hustad (she was born Louise Edwardina Hustad although she made it very clear to Wayne and the kids that she wasn't keen on her middle name and the kids regularly got trouble for relaying it). She was the second of nine brothers and sisters. Louise will always be remembered as a fantastic family caregiver among many other things and growing up was no different. With such as large family and her older brother leaving to school at a young age, Louise tended to her younger siblings up until she was married and began her own family. For Louise, taking care of the kids always came first, from her own childhood years up until her final day as a grandparent and school bus driver. Louise actually met Wayne walking back and forth to Kindergarten at the age of 5. Some of the grandkids recall her telling them that Wayne was mean and threw rocks at her-typical way for boys to show they are interested Wayne and Louise later reconnected in their teenage years. She married Wayne Dawson Switzer at the Roman Catholic Church in Dawson Creek on January 31, 1970. Between 1970 and 1974, they had 3 children together: Clinton, Clayton and Caylie. Louise and the family lived in town until 1976 at which time they had bought a section of land and moved a trailer and house onto the property shortly thereafter. This became home for the rest of her life. Louise and Wayne worked very hard at enjoying the country life whether they were fixing up their 100 year old home in the early years, trying their hand at raising a host of animals from chickens to pigs, rabbits, ducks, geese and horses to name a few or just supporting the many hobbies that come on the farm that the kids were involved in. it's hard to believe she was able to fit so many things in for everybody from friends to family and of course, still always worked a full time job. She was truly a tough, extremely hardworking lady. Louise and Wayne worked lovingly so hard on building their life on the farm, but also loved spending time together doing so many other things together. Many days and nights were spent camping out at the lake, driving out to the rodeos, river boating up the Murray River, and fishing together, as well as simply building countless fires and meals for family BBQ's at home. She loved Wayne so deeply and truly looked after him with all her heart. Louise always worked so hard at everything at home, but also had many outside occupations. To name a few, she was a BC Tel operator, store clerk, liquor store manager, shuttle driver, artist, and most recently her favorite-a school bus driver. This was a dream job for her as it brought her closest to one of her greatest passions-kids Louise was passionate about all kids and they really always gravitated toward her. She had a way of making all kids feel special in their own way- especially kids and more recently of course, her grandchildren. She was so very proud of her whole family, but really has a special talent as a grandmother. Lord help any individual who may utter an ill word about any of her darlings. She made such an effort to show up for all events to support them whether it was a gymkhana event in the dust and wind, a cold arena watching hockey and skating, a musical recital, Christmas concert or dance event-Grandma was the biggest fan!! She truly enjoyed every event and there was no one prouder in the entire family. Another passion in Louise's life was art. As her kids grew and started their lives and families, Louise was able to really spend a lot of time developing her skills and exploring the art world which she grew to love more and more with every passing year. Whether she was taking beautiful photographs, painting a scenic view or sketching a portrait, Louise was in her element. She was fearless to try art in any form whether it was delicate woodwork, stained glass, oil paintings, or just coloring in a book with crayons among the grandkids. She was truly gifted in this area. The relationships she also built through her art classes, clubs and events meant so much to her as well. She really loved friendships made and all the people she got to meet and work with while pursuing this passion. Once again, family and friendships were so important to Louise. Although Louise was not a huge social butterfly she did enjoy meeting and developing new friendships. She also cherished and valued the bonds she had with friends going back to school days. Childhood friends, Margaret, Lorraine, and Wendy were never far from her thoughts. She was a true friend. All in all, Louise was many things to many people over her life. She was a caregiver, artist, bus driver, friend, wife, mother, and grandmother to name a few. All will remember her in all these roles as a passionate, caring, loving, and strong person who took care of all who were close to her. Louise will be deeply missed by her husband Wayne, 3 children and their families including seven grandchildren and her remaining 7 brothers and sister, all extended family and countless friends. Her family would also like to thank everyone for their presence here today as well as their love and support. Service 11:00 am Wednesday, January 4, 2017 Dawson Creek Alliance Church 9009 - 10th street DAWSON CREEK, British Columbia, Canada V1G 4T2