Mrs. Barbara Ellen Swank, 81, of Rochester, was surrounded by her loving family when she passed away at 11:35 PM, Thursday, August 15th, at Woodlawn Hospital. In Lafayette on March 14, 1932, Barbara Ellen Fifer was born. She was the precious daughter of Walter and Luella Summers Fifer. Growing up she shared her childhood with a sister Carol and two brothers, Gordy and David. In May of 1949, with great pride she graduated from Romney High School, Romney, IN. Barbara and Dean F. Swank were married on September 10, 1949 in Lafayette. Together they enjoyed 43 years of life's adventures. From their union came 3 daughters and 3 sons. The family tree flourished with the added blessings of two more generations including 19 grandchildren and 29 great-grandchildren. Over the years, many will remember Barbara's positive attitude, warm smile and twinkling eyes. She worked at Harts-Schaffer-Marx, Wilson's Fine Feeds, Deans and Baxter's Drug Store Soda Fountain. She was a member of the Ladies auxiliaries of the Moose Lodge, Eagles Lodge and Manitou V.F.W. Post #1343. Devoted to her church, Barbara was a member of the St. Joseph's Catholic Church since 1960. She served on various committees including the Rosary Society. To relax Barbara enjoyed taking walks with Tippy, her black lab. She was a vibrant member of the Thursday evening group that met at McDonald's. The flower gardens that embraced her home added a colorful beauty during the summer months, thanks to her loving touch. As the matriarch over four generations, Barbara loved her family and the many memories they made together. There was always an open invitation to swim at Grandma's pool during the warm summer months. Grandma Swank was there in the thick of things splashing around or floating in the pool with the kids. The sports seasons beckoned her as the number one cheerleader for all of her families sporting events. She never missed a school music concert or awards program. The grandchildren could always count on her to be seated in the stands, and her help with the refs just in case they missed a call. Barbara is lovingly remembered by three daughters: Vicki Starkweather and husband Roy of North Manchester, Linda Hurd of Kokomo, JoAnn Bowers and husband John of Rochester; three sons: Jim Swank and wife Barb of Rochester, John "Jack" Swank and wife Judy of Rochester, Michael "Mike" Swank and wife Terri of Fishers; 19 grandchildren, 29 great grandchildren; a sister: Carol Kerkhoff of Romney; sister-in-laws: Mary Catherine "Mickey" Fifer of Chatham, IL , Lola Swank of Lafayette; brother-in-law: Pete Swank and wife Vernell of Lafayette; special cousin: Nancy Henson and Mr. Peppers; and Canine companion: Tippy. Preceding Barbara in death are her parents, beloved husband Dean on February 3, 1992, two brothers: Gordon "Gordy" Fifer, David Fifer, in-laws: Bill and Ruth Swank, Bob and Ida Davis, Walter and Margaret Galley, Phillip Swank and John Kerkhoff. A prayer service will be at 7:30 PM on Monday in the funeral home.Father Bert Woolson will officiate. She will be laid to eternal rest next to her beloved husband Dean, in the Rochester IOOF Cemetery.