Wray Swanson

Wray was born on July 28, 1936, in Lethbridge, AB. He is predeceased by his parents, Willard and Emma Swanson, his twin brother Roy and his sister-in-law Anita Swanson, and brother-in-law Jack Partlow.

He is survived by his wife, Charlotte (Rivers), and his daughters: Karen (Donald) Swanson Blackstock; Julie (Brian) Swanson; Diana (Brad) Davoren; Connie Goudie; and Laura (Shane) Bullock. Wray is also survived by his siblings: Melva Partlow; Harry (Audrey) Swanson; June (Warren) Cunningham; and Glenn (Lauralee) Swanson. Wray leaves behind ten grandchildren: Sophie Swanson Blackstock; Tian and Caisa Nolan; Kira and Savannah Davoren; Meri-Tegan and Lachlan Garrett Goudie; Spencer (Racheal), Emma, and Asa Bullock. He is also survived by three great-grandchildren: Ivy, Ezra, and Oliver, as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

On February 5, 1966, Wray married Charlotte, and together they moved onto the Sassy Homestead. Wray followed in his father’s footsteps, dedicating his life to farming and ranching. In 1980, he and Charlotte established Wrayco Farms Ltd. In the spring of 1967, through IAEA, the Swanson family welcomed their first exchange student. This marked the beginning of many new additions to the extended Swanson family. Over the years, Wray and Charlotte opened their home to more than 125 “adopted family members” from across Canada and around the world. Their open-door policy meant that everyone was welcome in their home, giving rise to many lifelong friendships and connections. Wray’s hospitality sparked a love for world travel, leading him to visit places such as New Zealand, Mexico, and various countries across Europe. He took great joy in travelling and “people watching.” Beyond his travels, Wray loved flying his plane, building his own boat, water and downhill skiing, swimming, and scuba diving with his twin brother, family, and friends. He was a man of many talents—welder, electrician, carpenter, farmer, rancher—always eager to learn new skills. An exceptionally gifted musician, Wray had a remarkable ear for music, excelling at both the piano and accordion. He was a member of the “Southern Playboys,” performing at dances throughout southern Alberta. His family fondly remembers falling asleep to the sound of him playing the piano, a memory that continues to bring comfort.

A Celebration of Life will be held at the HUNGARIAN CANADIAN OLD TIMER SOCIETY OF LETHBRIDGE, 410 2 Avenue South, Lethbridge, AB on Wednesday, January 21, 2026 from 11:30 AM to 4:00 P.M.

At Wray’s request, a private family Interment of his ashes will take place at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Wray’s name to Make a Wish Canada (makeawish.ca).