Mary Laswell Obituary

Mary Laswell, age 68, resident of Colorado Springs since 1976, and formerly of Wichita, Kansas passed away on Tuesday evening, October 4th, after an 18-month battle with small-cell lung cancer. Her daughter, Eve, and a few close friends were with her when she died at home. Mary was born in Independence, MO to Howard and Mabel (Ary) Laswell. Her parents and sister, Eunice, preceded her in death. She was a member of Grace and St. Stephen's Episcopal Church in Colorado Springs. Mary was an elementary school teacher starting at Bates in Colorado Springs School District #11, and retiring from Bristol in 2007. She loved animals, and had a passion for English bulldogs and horses. Mary's fun-loving and adventurous spirit attracted a multitude of long-term friendships that spanned continents. Friendship was her special gift to those she loved. She enjoyed hiking, long walks with her dogs, and just being active. She loved planning and attending social gatherings with her friends and was the life of the party with her humor and quick wit. Mary's avid reading and love of films kept her current with a wealth of information which she often shared with others. Mary is survived by her daughter, Eve (Matthew) Owens, of Delta, CO; granddaughter, Hannah Owens; brother Donald (Joan) Laswell, of Wichita, KS; nephews Cory and Casey Callendar; numerous cousins, her beloved Bichon Frise dogs, Bo and Jenny; former students; countless friends. A memorial service is planned for later this month at Grace and St. Stephen's Episcopal Church, date to be announced. Many thanks to the Memorial Hospital Oncology Department's dedicated staff and nurses, and to the Pikes Peak Hospice.