Kay Swithenbank: Fortuna Native and Longtime Bank of America Leader Dies at 93

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Kay Swithenbank

Kathleen “Kay” Anne (Renner) Swithenbank passed away peacefully at her home in Pleasanton, California, on December 5, at the age of 93.

Kay was born on her family’s dairy ranch in Metropolitan, just south of Fortuna, California. She was the youngest of seven children born to Theodore and Annie Renner. Kay attended McDermott School through the eighth grade and then attended Fortuna High School, where she graduated in 1950. Following graduation, she briefly attended business school before beginning her career with Bank of America as a teller.

Over the next 36 years, Kay worked her way up through the ranks at Bank of America, ultimately serving as an Assistant Manager and Loan Officer before retiring in 1992. Her dedication, professionalism, and strong work ethic defined a career she took great pride in.

In 1962, while working at the Bank of America branch in Garberville, California, Kay met Darrell Swithenbank. They were married in 1964 and shared many years together before his passing.

Kay was preceded in death by her husband, Darrell Swithenbank. She is survived by her daughter, Lanette (Tom) Wessel, and their children Daniel (Rocio), Anthony, Stephen, and Jonathan; her son, Scott (Diane) Swithenbank, and their children Cody and Dana; and her stepdaughter, Carolyn (Wayne) Snider, their daughter Stacy (Andy) Hibbard, and her children Samuel and Harrison.

Kay was known for her love, generosity, and unwavering devotion to her family and friends. She was happiest when surrounded by those she loved, and her warmth and kindness will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

A celebration of Kay’s life will be held in Fortuna at a future date, followed by a private interment in Eureka.