Chad Swanson, a Manhattan Beach police officer, tragically lost his life in a crash on the 405 Freeway. To honor his memory, a celebration of life service was held at SeaCoast Grace Church in Cypress. The event brought together family, friends, and fellow law enforcement personnel who gathered to share stories and memories of this remarkable man.
Chad Swanson, a 35-year-old police officer from Manhattan Beach, was remembered during a heartfelt celebration of life service on October 18 in Cypress. Just two weeks earlier, he had been killed in a devastating accident on the 405 Freeway. Despite the sorrow that permeated the air, the service was filled with laughter as those in attendance reminisced about Chad’s impact on their lives. Chad, who leaves behind a wife, three sons, and numerous loved ones, had an extraordinary ability to touch the lives of those he encountered in a short amount of time.
Born in 1988, Chad grew up in South Gate with his parents, Kip and Valerie. His childhood was filled with skateboarding adventures, camping trips to Salton Sea and Lost Lake, and the occasional mischief his friends would get into. Described by his parents as passionate, independent, fiercely competitive, loyal, intelligent, and impulsive, Chad was a spirited child who knew his way around the principal’s office.
One particular incident during his middle school years highlighted Chad’s selflessness. When one of his classmates accidentally broke a sign in the parking lot, Chad took the blame to protect his friend, even though his mother was skeptical of his explanation. Chad explained that his friend was not accustomed to getting into trouble and wouldn’t know how to handle the repercussions. This act marked the beginning of Chad’s journey as an “everyday hero of extraordinary courage,” according to Police Chief Rachel Johnson.
During high school at St. John Bosco, Chad stood at a humble 4 feet 10 inches tall and weighed a mere 85 pounds. However, his size did not hinder his determination to join the wrestling team and compete in the 103-pound weight class. He became renowned for his signature move, known as the cradle, which made him an unstoppable force on the wrestling mat. His childhood friend, Scott Johnson, reminisced about Chad always surprising him with new moves during their practice sessions. Scott longed for one final opportunity to experience Chad’s wrestling skills.
Chad’s accomplishments extended beyond the wrestling mat. He was the captain of the wrestling team and excelled academically, participating in the academic decathlon and honors society. Additionally, he was the junior class president and the vice president of the Associated Student Body. According to his mother, Chad made success look effortless. When Chad expressed his desire to join the police force, Scott initially questioned his decision. However, he soon realized that Chad’s passion, dedication, and fearlessness made him a perfect fit for the job.
Chad’s career began as a park enforcement officer for the Hawthorne Police Department before he joined the Manhattan Beach Police in 2010. He quickly became known for his appetite, always asking about lunch after department briefings, leading him to be called “sup girl” when answering the phone, much to his wife’s annoyance. Officer David Gibbons fondly recalled Chad’s mantra that police work couldn’t be done on an empty stomach.
Throughout his time with the Manhattan Beach Police Department, Chad served on the SWAT team, worked as a crime scene investigator, taught use-of-force techniques, and was a member of the Honor Guard. His commitment and dedication were unwavering.
The service, filled with poignant moments, concluded with Chad Swanson’s body being brought into SeaCoast Grace Church. Officers stood in salute, and his family was presented with a flag. Chad’s funeral was a solemn occasion, but it also served as a celebration of a life well-lived. Despite the immense grief, it was evident that Chad’s spirit would live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.
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