Swain, Mary Lawrence Grinnell 12/3/1927 - 4/7/2019 Grand Rapids Mary Lawrence Grinnell Swain, 91, died on Sunday April 7, a beautiful spring morning, at home and in full view of nature awakening before her. She leaves behind her husband of 68 years, Robert; children Sarah Swain, Hank (Cynnie) Swain, Marta Swain (Tad Caswell) and Rob (Gina) Swain; eight grandchildren: Gunnar, Andrew, Johanna, Will, John, Sarah, Evan and Max; two (soon to be three) great grandchildren, Campbell and Willa; her sister, Carolyn Heines; many nieces and nephews and their families, and friends of all ages. Though she had four of her own children Mary was a mother to many, many others. She was grateful for everything in her life and thankful to be able to spend her last days at home with her family as she had hoped after making the decision to let nature take its course. Her mind remained strong to the end and her beautiful, limitless spirit is now free to wander. Mary's favorite thing to do was spend time with her family and friends, especially at the family cottage on Lake Michigan, where she would often remark "Aren't we the luckiest people in the world?" And she truly meant it. Mary lived the principle of doing what was right, whether or not anyone noticed or knew about it. She was gracious and humble, asking very little for herself and asking of others only that they love each other, share their gifts, do what they can to save our earth for generations to come, and be caring, humble, loving and kind. Rather than sending flowers Mary would prefer that you pay attention to, appreciate and respect all the marvels of nature, wherever you find them. While Mary can best be honored by taking time to do good things for people and animals in need, memorial contributions to the West Michigan Environmental Action Council, Planned Parenthood of West Michigan or the Fountain Street Church Foundation would be much appreciated as well. The family is grateful to Hospice and to the many other caregivers (especially Anna) who provided her comfort over the last several weeks and months of her life. A memorial service will be held at 4:00 p.m. on Saturday April 20, 2019 at Fountain Street Church, 24 Fountain St. NE, Grand Rapids Michigan 49503. The family will greet friends beforehand at 3:00 p.m. in the Keeler Lounge at Fountain Street Church. Published in Grand Rapids Press on Apr. 14, 2019