Julie E. Barter

Julie Ella Barter (Swenby)
February 11, 1956 – December 12, 2025
Julie Ella Barter (Swenby), passed away peacefully in her home in Rockford, Illinois on
December 12, 2025 at the age of 69. Julie was born on February 11, 1956 in Stoughton,
Wisconsin. She was the 6 th of 7 children born to Kenneth Swenby and Opal Meicher (Smith /
Swenby).
Julie loved her grandchildren Lindsey, Kyle, Jalen and Noah. She had a kind heart to care for
animals and had many dogs throughout the years, ranging from her first dog Evette to her last
dog Bertie and many dogs in between. At one point, she even took in a pregnant cat named
Scruffy. Lindsey and Kyle have a fond memory of being with Julie when Scruffy’s litter of kittens
were born. They remember their grandma teaching them to use one finger to gently pet the
newborn kittens.
Julie was preceded in death by her father Kenneth Swenby, her mother Opal Meicher and her
sister Susan Podell.
She is survived by her children, Lisa (Art) Cresson and James Swenby. Her grandchildren,
Lindsey (Austin) Cresson, Kyle Cresson, Jalen Swenby and Noah Cresson and one great-
grandchild. She is also survived by her siblings, Burdette Lacey, Darrell Swenby, Kendall (Inga)
Swenby, Jenni (Mike) Quam and Kevin Swenby.
Julie faced many hardships in her life. She loved Jesus, and we take comfort in knowing she is
now in heaven, restored and healed from the physical and mental scars she carried.
There will be no service at this time. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to your
favorite animal charity.

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