Obituary of Denise McVey

Denise McVey (née Szewc), 55, died on May 31, 2020, at her home in Roy, Washington.

Denise was born on November 22, 1964, in Anchorage, Alaska. She was a shy child, but she was also eager to learn, and she loved to make everything an adventure. She enjoyed dancing and writing.

As a member of a military family, Denise adjusted to moving. Her education began at Palmer Elementary School in Fairborn, Ohio, before she moved to Shalimar Elementary in Shalimar, Florida. After the family was transferred to Elmendorf Air Force Base in Alaska, she attended Mountain View Elementary, Creekside Park Elementary, and Clark Middle School. She graduated with honors from Bartlett High School in 1983.

Denise attended Pacific Lutheran University in Parkland, Washington, where she majored in special education. A passionate educator who taught for over 30 years, she made a meaningful impact on countless students and teachers in Bethel School District. She was admired for her patience, her sense of humor, and her positive outlook.

Denise is survived by her daughter, Olivia (Ian) Rollins; her parents, Beatrice and Leon Szewc; her sister, Theresa Griese; her brothers, Michael (Serenity) Szewc and Stephen (Barbara) Szewc; and nine nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband, Leonard McVey. Her smile will never be forgotten, and she will be greatly missed by many friends and family members.

A private service was held at Tahoma National Cemetery. To honor the memory of Denise, donations can be sent by mail to the National Blood Clot Alliance, Campaign Processing, P.O. Box 333 Canton, MA 02021 or made online at www.stoptheclot.org.