Tom Swale

Tom Swale, 81, passed away April 12, 2016 after a long history of heart disease. His family was at his bedside. He and his wife Ellie, both of Mason City, Iowa have been married almost 58 years. Tom was born in Des Moines and adopted as an infant by Douglas and Helen Swale.

After serving 3 years in the US Army, Tom went to work for General Mills, Inc. until his retirement 38 years later. He served as President of the Iowa Grocers Manufacturing Association and the Clive Lions Club. He volunteered for the Iowa Hall of Pride and also served his community by sitting on the Planning and Zoning Commission for Clive. Tom was a long time member of Windsor Heights Lutheran Church and Hyperion Field Club.

He had many hobbies over the years including sailing, hunting, cooking, golf and wood carving. His hand wood carvings of birds, ducks and fish earned him many ribbons over the years at the Iowa State Fair.

Tom is predeceased by his parents, Douglas and Helen Swale. He is survived by his wife Ellie; son, Todd (Suzann) of South Carolina; daughter, Stacy (Steve) Bello of Florida; son, Andy (Heidi) of Florida; 6 grandchildren, Zach (Abby) Bello, Elsie Swale, Margaret Bello, Joslynne Swale, Stephen Swale and Emily Swale; his brother, Mike Swale of Virginia; and sister, Sandy Tagliaferro of California.

Our family would like to extend a special thank you to Dr. Craig Stevens and the nursing staff of
3 North at Iowa Lutheran Hospital.

Services will be held Friday, April 15, 2016 at Windsor Heights Lutheran Church, 1240 66th St. in Des Moines, IA with visitation from 9 to 11 a.m. and the service at 11:30 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, memorial funds can be given to Windsor Heights Lutheran Church Building Fund or to the Des Moines Area Religious Council Food Pantry. Condolences may be expressed online at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.

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