Malcolm Swing February 9, 1924 – April 4, 2016

Malcolm Swing went peacefully to his final rest, proud and dignified to the end. He is survived by his wife, Helen, daughters Anita (Grant) and Sandy (Chris), grandchildren Emile and Isabel, sister Stella in India, and numerous nieces and nephews in Canada and India.

While the world has lost a colourful man, thankfully it has not lost the wealth of his colourful paintings which grace a great many rooms worldwide.

Malcolm was born in Lucknow, India, coming to Canada to marry Helen Forbes in 1961. He arrived in this country with many tales of his exploits as a young man, most of which involved his considerable athletic talents. He was on the Indian Olympic track and field team, never getting a chance to compete with the advent of WWII. In the Indian Air Force, he won the Victor Ludorum cup for best all-round athlete. Throughout his life, he carried a photo of himself with the cup, showing it to anyone who asked about his life.

Malcolm and Helen raised their daughters in Thunder Bay, Ontario, where Malcolm worked as an art teacher at Selkirk High School, beloved of all his students. He took early retirement to open Maharaja Antiques, where he held court, painted, and transacted business.

Without question, Malcolm’s greatest gift and passion was his painting. His favourite themes were the landscapes around Thunder Bay (the Sleeping Giant, Mount McKay, the grain elevators), scenes from rural Indian life, scenes from Christian scriptures peopled with Indian figures, and, latterly, the landscape and landmarks of Kamloops, BC.

All his life he loved going out, shopping, talking to people. He made friends with people from all walks of life and was known for his generosity. Malcolm’s was a figure that stood out, always a dapper dresser right down to his choice of rings, bolo tie, and beret.

He was always proud of his daughters’ accomplishments, often carrying around our diplomas/degrees to show to people. He uncomplainingly cared for his wife Helen in her decline with dementia, showing enduring love and admiration for her strength of character and her athletic prowess. Many will remember the vision of our parents dancing together, as they did a great deal throughout their life together. Others would often stop dancing to marvel at the handsome pair whirling skillfully around the dance floor. This is one of many memories to cherish.

Heartfelt thanks to all staff at Kamloops Seniors Village for their respect, kindness, care and support. We have truly felt part of a community and are eternally grateful for the good people you are.

A good and long life has been lived. Rest in peace, Dad.

Arrangements entrusted to
Alternatives Funeral & Cremation Services 250-554-2324
Condolences may be expressed to the family from www.myalternatives.ca

• Date : 2016-04-04
• Location : Kamloops, BC