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SWINBURNE -- Bernard "Bernie" H. Swinburne, 89, passed away on March 25, 2011 of complications from Alzheimer's disease. Bernie spent his life as both a community leader and a community servant. He was born in Nottingham, England on May 19, 1921 to Reverend and Mrs. Edwin Swinburne. He came to America as a small child and spent his youth in Ohio where he attended Bliss Business College and Tiffin University. In World War II he served as a bombardier in the 8th Air Force. He was a P.O.W. in France, held by the Germans for 12 months, and was awarded the Purple Heart. He was a 56-year resident of Albuquerque, New Mexico and moved to Destin, Florida in 2008. Bernie began a distinguished banking and public service career in 1952 at First National Bank in Albuquerque where he remained for 40 years. He retired in 1992 at age 71. Retirement did not diminish the vibrant energy and tireless activity level that had been Bernie's lifelong trademark. His career duties were more than full time endeavors but he also found time to serve and lead countless community organizations. He served on the Better Business Bureau as a member and director for more than 50 years. He was elected chairman on three different occasions. The hallmark of his community service was his nearly 37 years as a member and perennial chairman of the Albuquerque Metropolitan Arroyo Flood Control Authority. Swinburne Dam was dedicated in 1991 in honor of his significant contributions to major flood control projects. Bernie did not rest at being a leading banker, Chairman of the Flood Control Authority and chairman of the Better Business Bureau. He participated on the boards of the YMCA, New Mexico Zoological Society, Boy Scouts, American Institute of Banking (past president), Association of Commerce and Industry, and the Albuquerque Hispano Chamber of Commerce. He was a long time member of the Board of Trustees of Central United Methodist Church, and more recently was a member of Destin United Methodist Church. His commitment to serving others is seen in the breadth and depth of his community involvement: Board Member, Life Member and Past President of Rio Grande Kiwanis (55 years of perfect attendance); President, Kiwanis Foundation; President of Albuquerque Knife & Fork Club (three times); President of Middle Rio Grande Flood Association and seven years on the Executive Committee; Board Member UNM Lobo Club; Board Member of Albuquerque Petroleum Club; Life Member of the 91st Bombardment Group; Life Member 8th Air Force Historical Society; Life Member American Legion Post #13; Senior Citizens Hall of Fame, 1998. Apart from his lifelong participation in community service organizations, perhaps his greatest gift was his enthusiasm for every project he was involved in. Always positive and upbeat, he led others to solve problems more easily, faster and better. Quick to volunteer, he was also quick to appreciate others with his trademark "Thank you for your courtesy!" to everyone who joined him in projects. Bernie was preceded in death by his wife of 62 years, Margaret. They are survived by daughter, Peggy Henderson, and her husband, John, of Destin, Florida, and daughter, Nancy Hobbs, and her husband, Grady, of Ruidoso, New Mexico. They had five grandchildren; thirteen great-grandchildren; and twenty-three great-great-grandchildren. Bernie loved the Lord, his family, his community, and his country. A private family gathering has been held. Arrangements are entrusted to Twin Cities Cremation and Funeral Services, 1405 East John Sims Parkway, Niceville, Florida. Expressions of sympathy may be viewed or submitted online at www.twincitiescremationsfunerals.com.
        Published on: Sun April 03, 2011