Patricia "Patty" Swedlund Bendickson, 60, Velva, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, October 6, 2010 in a Minot Hospital.

Patty was born December 3, 1949 at Minot, ND, the daughter of Tony and Lois (Nopp) Swedlund. She was raised on the family farm north of Velva and graduated from Velva High School in 1967. She was united in marriage to David Bendickson on July 29, 1973 at Oak Valley Lutheran Church, Velva.

Patty and David made their home in Velva, where they raised their two sons, Eric and Mark, who were her pride and joy. Patty worked for her brother, Paul in the Swedlund Photography business and eventually purchased the business from him. She was a well-known and respected photographer in the area. She sold the business and was currently working at Choice Hotels, where she was fortunate to work from home and still dote on her 2 precious puppies, Spanky and Sophie.

Patty was well-known for her no-nonsense approach to life, quick wit and sense of humor. She was always the first to offer a helping hand, with no questions asked. She enjoyed spending time with her family at home and at Strawberry Lake. Her most joyful times were when her two boys were home hanging out at the Lake.

Patty was a former member of Toastmasters and the Purdy Good Ol' Band of Velva. She enjoyed playing her saxophone with her four sisters and had attended the International Music Camp at the Peace Garden for many years. Her monster cookies and potato salad were legendary. She touched all she met with her laid-back approach to life and will be dearly missed by her family and friends.

She is survived by her husband of 37 years, David of Velva, sons, Eric and Mark, both of Butte, MT, brothers, Paul (Ann) Swedlund, Velva, John (Dede) Swedlund, Velva, sisters, Betty (Orlan) Buseth, Strawberry Lake, ND, Mary (Jerry) Johnson, Velva, ND, Jean (Bob) Miller, Alaska; sister-in-law, Iris Swedlund, Velva; nineteen nieces and nephews, along with fourteen great-nieces and great-nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, brother, Tony Swedlund Jr., and sister, Kay Obert.

Funeral service : Saturday, October 9, 2010 at 10:30 a.m. in Oak Valley Lutheran Church, Velva.
Visitation: At her request, there will be no reviewal, however friends may sign a memorial register book on Friday from 2:00-7:00pm in the Thomas Family Funeral Home, Minot.