Shrewsbury – Nellie L. (Petralia) Schwaner, 89, formerly of Dalton, passed away peacefully with her family by her side on Aug. 13, 2021. Nellie was born in Lawrence to the late Alfred and Carmella (Giaquinta) Petralia.
Nellie met her husband, Gordon W. Schwaner, the love of her life, while attending Merrimack College. They married in May 1959 and celebrated 61 years of marriage last year. Gordon recently passed away on Aug. 13, 2020.
Nellie was the heart of her family’s home. She always made sure her children and grandchildren were taken care of by simply offering a hug, special phone call or being by their side if they needed anything. She was the most attentive listener and always supportive. She had a very big heart and looked for the best in everyone. She always found a way to help friends and her community by volunteering and teaching Sunday school. Her greatest joy was being a grandmother of four and she was a significant part of their lives.
Nellie enjoyed spending time at Cape Cod, making ceramics, reading, and doing yoga and fitness classes. She adored animals of any kind, in particular her daughter’s dog, Cleo, and her son’s rabbit, Saki. Her favorite flowers were roses and hydrangeas because they reminded her of Cape Cod.
Nellie leaves behind her daughter, Beth Scott and her husband Marty of Jefferson; her son, John Schwaner and his wife Maribeth of Franklin, Tenn.; and four grandchildren, Justin and Abbey Scott, and Alex and Josh Schwaner.
In keeping with Nellie’s wishes, private services will be held with immediate family only.
