Mary M. Swehla of Venice, Florida was born on June 25, 1958 in Charles City, Iowa, growing up on a farm in Nashua and New Hampton, IA areas. She passed away in Venice, Florida on February 23, 2026 at the age of 67. On August 6, 1977 was as united in marriage to Dale Swehla and lived in Waterloo IA. She worked for John Deere Waterloo Works in Visitor Services and Special Events for 34 years, retired in January 2013 with Dale and moved to Venice, FL 9 years ago.

Mary was Board Chair of the Waterloo Convention & Visitor Board of Directors, Board Chair of the Covenant Hospital Foundation Board of Directors for two terms, Silos & Smoke Stacks National Heritage Area - Board of Trustees and a founding member, Venice Golf and Country Club new residence monthly gathering coordinator for 8 years, member of Daughters of the American Revolution and member of the Red Hat Ladies Club.

She is survived by her husband, Dale J. Swehla of Venice, Florida; her Children - Matthew Swehla (Amelia) of Green Bay, WI, Sheena Swehla (Nicholas D’Anna) of Dallas, TX, Natalie Hess (Corey) of Waterloo, IA; her Siblings - Carolyn Mashek of Waverly, IA, Twila Bobst (Jeff) of Waverly, IA, Dennis Westervelt (Janice) of Dubuque, IA and Rick Westervelt of Mora, MN. Mary was preceded in death by her parents, Bud and Lois Westervelt.

Mary so loved her family, family events and especially her “sweetie” grandchildren. She was always very active with John Deere and Waterloo community activities. She also enjoyed camping, gardening, world travel, cooking, entertaining and relaxing on the beach.

A Celebration of Life Service will be announced at a later date in the Waterloo/Cedar Falls, IA area. Farley Funeral Home in Venice is handling the arrangements. To send a condolence, please visit www.farleyfuneralhome.com.