Rene Swank, 67
Daily Inter-Lake | UPDATED 6 days, 4 hours AGO
Rene Swank
Rene Swank, 67, left this world the same way she lived it — side by side with her husband of 49 years, her partner in everything.
Daughter of Ron Goff and Patricia Goff, Rene was born in Billings on Nov. 11, 1958. She spent her early years in Billings before her family moved to Valier in 1973 — a move that would shape the rest of her life. It was there she met Derek Swank, her lifelong partner. They were married on June 11, 1977, beginning a partnership that was steady, devoted, and full of love.
Together, Rene and Derek attended Montana State University before returning to Valier, where they built their life, worked side by side at Swank Enterprises, and raised their three children: Jacquie Foster, Jeffrey Swank and Jenny Krasteva.
Rene was the center of it all. She had a way of holding her family together — no matter how far everyone spread out, she made sure they stayed close. Her greatest joy was her children and grandchildren, and she poured everything into those relationships. Whether it was traveling, gathering, or just being together, she created the kind of memories that stick with you.
In 2002, Rene and Derek found another special place in Bigfork, where they spent their summers surrounded by the mountains and the beauty they loved. Winters were spent in Scottsdale, Arizona, where Rene was happiest by the pool, playing cribbage, listening to music, laughing, and enjoying a cold Bud Light.
Rene is survived by her husband, Derek; her mother, Patricia; her brothers, Ross Goff of Wyoming and Ronald Goff of Colorado; her children, Jacquie (Rick) Foster, Jeffrey (Michelle) Swank, and Jenny Krasteva (Milen Krastev); and her grandkids, who meant the world to her, Abigail and Edison Foster; Aiden and Liam Swank; and Yolotli, Mia, and Derek Krastev.
She also leaves behind many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and close friends who will miss her deeply.
A service to celebrate Rene’s life will be held at 1 p.m. on April 17 at Bigfork Methodist Church.
More than anything, Rene will be remembered for the way she loved — fully, generously, and always bringing her family together. She kept us close. She always will.