Constance Floraine Slorby Sweeney, 86, Minot, ND, died Tuesday, April 7th, 2009 in a Minot nursing home. 

She was born in Plankinton, SD on April 8th, 1922 to DeWitt Clinton and Mildred Elizabeth (O'Brien) McGovern.  The family moved to Minot, ND, where Connie received her education.  She graduated from MHS in 1940 and was still meeting her classmates for their "noon luncheons" this year.  She was very proud of the college degree she earned from MSU, even if it did take her 40 years to complete.  She made the president's list and in 1982, and graduated Summa Cum Laude.  All of her children and grandchildren went on to college as well. 

In 1944, Connie married LeRoy Slorby and they had 4 children.  She dedicated her life to providing them all with a happy, entertaining life.  Whether she was coaching a championship little league team, leading dozens of scouts, helping the PTA or Band Mothers, it was clear she enjoyed it all.  She never missed a game, concert, play or any important event in her family's busy lives.  She still referred to people now grown, such as her special friend, Donny Yellowbird, as "One of my ballplayers" or " One of my scouts".  Her home was the one that everyone wanted to come to and the yard was always filled with kids playing games or building things.  A friend once told her, that her kids brought people home like others brought home cats or dogs.  There were many local boys in "Slorby's Army” and “Camp Minot" was in Connie's backyard, with battles usually in Eastwood Park.  She gave up her clothesline post, so her kids could build a treehouse. Half of her basement was taken over by a train board and city.  The dining room chairs and a good sheet were often being used for a covered wagon. 

Connie usually made a living as a secretary.  She worked for numerous physicians, the missile wing commander at the Minot Air Force Base and finally, the Teamsters Union, where she retired in 1984.  She was also a licensed realtor during that time. 

She married Harold Sweeney (San Francisco, CA, originally from Surrey) in 1984, and they moved to Veneta, OR and later Eugene, OR.  While in Oregon, she took more classes just for fun.  She learned how to use an airbrush, make stained - glass windows, tap dancing and other art classes.  She continued to golf, bowl and, since Harold was on a Senior Citizen softball team, she went to all the games.  He died in 2008. 

All through her life, Connie loved to go on family trips.  Sometimes just her family, but there were just as many with other people too.  There were many trips with the Vandenover’s in the 60’s.  Although Connie moved to the opposite side of the country, she never lost contact with her family, even setting up a toll-free number so the grandchildren could call anytime they needed to talk.  She never missed an annual summer trip to ND to spend time with her grandchildren, and later her great-grandchildren.  Each summer included endless days at Roosevelt Pool and camping trips throughout the state.  Although not short of their mishaps, getting lost in the countryside, or many natural disasters, a wonderful time was had by all.  In her later years, Connie enjoyed regular visits from her grandchildren for dinner, walks in the park, or to watch movies. 

Connie will always be remembered for her heart of gold and her calm, warm demeanor.  She had a wonderful knack for instilling confidence in those who needed it, and lifting the spirits of anyone who was down.  Her enduring positive outlook on life, no matter what life handed her, was revered by many. 

Survivors include: her children, Jack Slorby, Tom (Margo) Slorby, Robert (Omana) Slorby and Lynda Slorby all of Minot. Her brother, Clinton Gale (Betty) McGovern of California. She also has 9 grandchildren, 7 great-grandchildren, 1 great-great grandchild, and many nieces and nephews. 

Constance was preceded in death by her parents, her sister, Marvel (McGovern) Sweeney, her 1st husband LeRoy Slorby and her husband Harold Sweeney. 

Funeral service: Monday, April 13, 2009 at 11:00 a.m. in First Presbyterian Church, Minot.
Visitation: At the request of the family, there will be no reviewal; however friends may sign a memorial register book on Sunday from 2:00-5:00p.m. in the Thomas Family Funeral Home, Minot.
Memorials are preferred to one of the local Arts organizations.

Back to April Services · Back to On-Line Obituaries · 
Message of Sympathy/Guest Book · Flowers