Stanley "Brian" Swensen

SWENSEN, Dr. Stanley Brian  
August 02, 1940  - October 21, 2016

With deep sadness, the family of Brian Swensen would like to announce his passing following a long battle with Alzheimer’s and Cancer. Brian will be lovingly remembered by Linda, his wife of thirty-two years; his two daughters (the lights of his life), Cynthia Dawn of High River and Amanda Jane of Didsbury; as well as his stepsons, Will, Sean and Jeff. Brian went to join his mother, Edna Daisy Swensen, and the father he never met. Flying Officer Stanley Powell Swensen was killed in the Second World War when his bomber crashed on the way home from France to meet his newborn son. After completing high school in Calgary, Brian worked as a ranch hand on many southern Alberta ranches. Riding as an outrider behind the chuck wagons in the Calgary Stampede, his knowledge and experience were instrumental in bringing the chuck wagons to High River. Brian would happily reminisce about his “cowboy days” spent riding trails on the prairie, in the foothills and Rocky Mountains. Brian’s genuine compassion for animals and years on the ranches led him to pursue a career in veterinary medicine. Graduating from the Western College of Veterinary Medicine in 1971, he went on to open the Highwood Veterinary Centre in 1974. A serious car accident in November 1980 would change Brian’s life forever, but he fought both physically and mentally to overcome his injuries. In 1990 he moved to Didsbury to attend the Mountain View Bible College, graduating with a degree in Religious Studies. Brian continued veterinary work in Didsbury and Sundre until his retirement. Brian would want to be remembered as a “good cowboy” and for his love of animals and family. We will never forget the care given to Brian and his family during his stay at the Didsbury Hospital. The professionals in Unit 2 were an amazing comfort to Brian and his loved ones and we are eternally grateful.