Jane Anne Swinson-Breuer

Jane Swinson Breuer

Born into Eternal Life on Thursday, November 9, 2023, at the age of 96. Cherished Mom of Patricia (Gary) Chatham and William (Monica) Swinson. Loving Grandma of Courtney (Joseph) Stachewicz, Alec Swinson, and Anna (Brian) Kastelic. Proud great-grandma of Levi and Clark Stachewicz and Edward Kastelic. Preceded in death by Maurice Swinson, husband of 37 years and John Breuer, husband of 26 years, brother Charles and sister Gerene. Also loved by nieces and nephews and many, many friends.

Jane embraced life. She always greeted friends and family with “I’m so glad you’re here,” and “I’m so happy to see you.” She enjoyed her career in Nursing and worked until she turned 72. She was voted “Best Nurse” by her fellow graduates and faculty and received the Dr. Helm award for excellence in nursing. She taught CPR and was trained as a Red Cross Disaster Nurse.

She encouraged continuous learning and did so herself by taking a World Literature class and achieved certification in electrolysis to teach instructors. Even at 96, she was very tech-savvy! Jane loved her iPhone, iPad and Google Assistant and attended Apple classes to make sure she stayed current. She enjoyed tackling weekly writing assignments with a group at Tudor Oaks since 2011. She would compose her papers on the iPad and print them out on her wireless printer. Her nephews Jack and Bob Beck often commented that Jane had a “great flair for writing!”

Jane cherished family road trips to her brother Chuck’s camp on Schroon Lake in the Adirondack Mountains where fun times ensued, including boating, waterskiing, hiking, ice cream at Stewart’s Country Store and bonfires on the beach. She often enjoyed visiting with her sister Gerene in Illinois or in Florida. She was a world traveler and loved reading about other countries and cultures in her World Books.  On one particular trip, she visited Singapore, India, Malaysia, China and Japan. She rode the Bullet Train in Japan and toured the Taj Mahal in India on Easter Sunday morning. Closer to home, Jane was active in every season, whether it was golfing, cross-country skiing, ice skating, snowshoeing or tobogganing.

A long-time member of Blessed Hope United Methodist Church, Jane sang in the choir, played handbells and was a member of the United Methodist Women’s group. Her faith, family, friendships and nursing career sustained her throughout her life. She loved frozen custard (especially chocolate) and enjoyed rousing card games of UNO and Go Fish with great-grandsons Levi and Clark. Recently, she was thrilled to be able to hold her newest great-grandson Eddie in her arms and so loved his infectious smiles.

Jane was an inspiration to her grandchildren. She always encouraged them to “just try it” and always showed interest in what they were doing. She allowed Courtney a first attempt at driving her car before driving school had started. Alec will always remember the morning before Mom passed away when Bill told her that Alec was taking his electrical Journeyman exam later that day. She gave us a beautiful smile after hearing that news and said it was wonderful. Anna and Brian will always remember Grandma Jane had the biggest smile meeting great-grandson Eddie this past Mother’s Day as she cradled him in her arms. Mom would also read school books at the same time as her grandchildren in order to discuss the finer plot points together. She was always there to listen to dilemmas and offer a possible approach.

Jane thoroughly loved staying in touch with her Irish relatives. Their frequent visits stateside were wonderful and always filled with exciting activities.

We know of Angels because of our Mom. She was a remarkable person. Her love, strength and guidance was unfailing. She listened, thoughtfully advised, and quietly reminded us of the gifts we have to offer the world. She was the catalyst that encouraged us to learn new things and we all benefited. Her smile and laugh warmed our hearts. Thanks, Mom! 

Memorials may be given to the Music Department of Blessed Hope United Methodist Church, in remembrance of Jane and her love of and participation in Church musical activities.

Celebration of Jane’s life will be held on Saturday, December 2, 2023, at Blessed Hope United Methodist Church, 3177 South 107th Street, West Allis, Wisconsin. Visitation will begin at 1:00 PM followed by Service at 2:30 PM.

Our family deeply appreciates your out pouring of love, kindness and prayers.