Leslie was born September 1, 1969, in Anamosa, Iowa, to proud parents, Paul and Linda. Her first four years were spent in Ames, Iowa, while Dad finished his DVM at Iowa State University. She became proud big sister to her brother, Aaron, in 1972.
Even with many family moves, Leslie's quick smile, curly hair, outgoing personality and ability to fit in helped her adapt and make friends easily. She enjoyed cooking and baking for her family.
She graduated from Fremont (NE) High School. Her love of music included French horn and piano, making her Dad's favorite accompanist and leading her to a summer tour with the Continentals, a Christian music ministry outreach. Always independent, she was not bothered by being away from home or the adventure of international travel.
A love for children led her to families in Boston, MA, and Omaha, where she served as a nanny. But Leslie's natural aptitude for medicine drew her first to earn her EMT certification, then to Creighton University to certify as a paramedic. As opportunities arose, she also worked in hospital labs, health counseling, insurance and related medical fields.
She married Robert Taylor of Fremont in 1996 and was blessed to be "Mom" to Megan Taylor (Oklahoma City, OK) and Allison Taylor of Fremont. They were later divorced.
In 2011, Leslie married Greg Swartz of Fullerton, NE. Leslie had fond memories of her times on the farm with her grandparents and it seems both marriages - to farmers - were shaped by the life she had come to love.
Her greatest challenge was her health. Over the decades, those challenges only increased. But there was never a complaint. She endured her life with courage and strength, passing quietly into the Lord's hands.
She is survived by her husband, Greg; parents, Paul and Linda; daughters, Megan and Allison Taylor; her sister-in-law, Amy; and many beloved family and friends.
Leslie was preceded in death by three sets of loving grandparents and her brother, Aaron.
The family will receive friends on Thursday, April 9, 2026 at the Fremont Alliance Church from 5pm to 7pm. The memorial service will be 10am, Friday, April 10 at the Fremont Alliance Church. Memorials may be directed to the Music Ministry at the Fremont Alliance Church or the Fremont Evangelical Free Church.
Online guestbook at www.Ludvigsenmortuary.com
Livestream link: https://boxcast.tv/view/funeral---leslie-swartz-c4kmslvhlptvyffv8h3k
Condolences(5)
Linda Koppenhaver
Houston, TX Tuesday, April 7, 2026 Another beautiful star lights the firmament. The Koppenhaver family were all devastated to hear of Leslie’s passing, yet we can not even imagine the loss you must feel. Know that all of our thoughts, prayers and pieces of our hearts are with you. We hope it lifts you to know that she is in the Lord’s restful arms.Roma and Dave
Coralville, IA Thursday, April 2, 2026 Our hearts are crushed. We love you guys so very much. But no one can ever hurt like you two, her mom and her dad. We are glad we saw her and her dog companion last August. Seems so long ago. Peace be with you and Jesus says again, peace.Jen & Luke Grenier
Fremont, NE Wednesday, April 1, 2026 I’m so very sorry, dear neighbors. There never seem to be appropriate words of comfort at times like this. Sending you love and condolences at this difficult time.Amy Frank
Eagle, NE Wednesday, April 1, 2026 I am so sorry to hear about Leslie's passing. I, also, have many of the same memories that Chris Brown listed. Leslie and I got into plenty of mischief together and had lots of great times. It's been awhile since we have seen each other, but the last time we spoke we did a lot of catching up. It was also great to keep in touch through Facebook. I know she is now with her Lord and Saviour. Rest in His arms, Leslie.Chris (Lodl) Brown
Elkhorn, NE Tuesday, March 31, 2026 I am so sorry to hear about the passing of Leslie. We had so much fun in youth group and high school. I remember the first time meeting her. I also remember the slumber party at your home, the hot tub, prom and many other fun memories. Praying for God's comfort and peace for you.