Obituary of Ruelene Edna Swonson

Ruelene Edna Swonson, 90, of Mesa, AZ passed away peacefully in her assisted care living home on the night of March 2,2022. She was born on April 6, 1931, in Safford AZ to Joseph Ruel Bingham and Beryle Dana Bingham. For the majority of the latter years of her life, she was affectionately known as "Mia" by her family and even the staff and caregivers of her assisted care facility l0vingly, referred to her by this name. Ruelene attended both Elementary school and High School in Safford. She was an Honor student and loved school. She enjoyed playing tennis and participation on the cheer team. Her most outstanding achievement was her scholarship in music to Northern Arizona University for her excellence in piano and choir. She chose instead to marry Ruben Lee Burrell of Safford after he returned home after three years in the US Air Force. During her early years of marriage, Ruelene stayed busy as a young wife and mother and activities with her church. The young couple initially lived in Safford for Ruben's Pre-Med courses then moved to San Francisco for his Dental schooling. In 1959 following Ruben's graduation, the now young family returned to Arizona to be closer to family. Mesa was their choice of residence and it remained Ruelene's home for the rest of her life. Once all the children were in school during the day, Ruelene gained employment at a women's clothing store and a few years later worked for Daniel's Jewelers. Her last and favorite employment prior to retirement at age 70, was working as a teacher for Mesa Public Schools in a specialty Certified Reading and Math program where she grew to love both teachers and students. Her summers were spent working part time as Director of an Arts and Crafts class in the City of Mesa Summer Program. Ruelene was an active and faithful member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. Her faith was her cornerstone and she enjoyed serving in various callings over the years. She loved serving others. In her spare time, she enjoyed decorating her home. knitting, crocheting and crafts. Family gatherings and church activities were always her favorites as well. Ruelene will be remembered by her children as a mom that made every holiday special with festive decorations, surprises and treats. Her friends will remember her love for her neighbors, incredible work ethic and skills. She was a quick learner and a fun caring co-worker. Her faith was her mainstay. Ruelene's life and legacy will be cherished by her survivors: sister Katie Clonts and spouse Dillard Clonts, daughters Cindy Burrell, Terry Richardson and spouse Jesse Richardson, son Dana Burrell and spouse Michele Burrell and son David Burrell and wife Stacy Burrell. Other survivors include her much loved 18 grandchildren and 27 grandchildren. Those who precede her in death are mother Beryle Dana Bingham, father J Ruel Bingham, baby daughter Sherri Lee Burrell, son Timothy Hugh Burrell, 1st husband Ruben Lee Burrell and 2nd husband Keith Gordon Swonson. Our family truly appreciates all who have offered heartfelt sympathies and condolences for the passing of this much-loved woman. We will all sorely miss her until that glorious day when we meet again. Cemetery Details City of Mesa Cemetery 1212 N. Center St. Mesa, AZ 85201 Loading map Previous Events Visitation MAR 11. 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM (MT) Meldrum Mortuary 52 N Macdonald Mesa, AZ 85201 info@meldrummortuary.com https://www.meldrummortuary.com Loading map Visitation MAR 12. 10:30 AM (MT) The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints 933 East Brown Road Mesa, AZ 85203 Loading map Funeral Service MAR 12. 11:30 AM (MT) The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints 933 East Brown Road Mesa, AZ 85203 Loading map