John David Swapp

With great sadness, we announce the death of John David Swapp of St. George, UT, aged 79, who died September 1, 2022, at home surrounded by family after a short battle with cancer. Born on September 12, 1942, in Overton, NV, John was the son of Alex Ether Swapp and Sarah Geneve Reiser Swapp. A true “desert kid”, John spent his childhood in the hills of Overton chasing friends, riding horses and making trouble. Having grown up along the Muddy River, it wasn’t until the Coast Guard that he learned you can actually see-through water. Part of the Moapa Valley High School class of 1960, John lettered in football, basketball and baseball. He continued his education at Brigham Young University, Career Academy of Broadcasting, and City College where he earned a bachelor’s degree in Business. John also served a mission for the LDS Church. He met his eternal partner, Joy Andreason, in Las Vegas while Joy was babysitting for his sister Maureen. They were later married in Aberdeen, ID on March 20, 1965, and sealed in the Oakland temple. Their life together included homes around the United States extending between Florida, Alaska and Hawaii. During his 32-year career in the Coast Guard, John specialized in Communications and Security. John was honorably discharged on April 1, 1998, with a National Defense Service Medal, the Coast Guard Meritorious Unit Award, the Coast Guard Achievement Medal, and two Bronze Stars. Commendations included Meritorious Service, Humanitarian Service, Sea Service, Expert Rifle and Pistol Sharpshooter. Following the Coast Guard, John was employed by the Redmond, WA Police Department for 11 years as an Evidence Technician. At the Redmond PD, John not only received the Letter of Distinguished Service, but the respect of various Law Enforcement agencies around the area. John was also celebrated for his participation teaching students about the Criminal Justice System at the local high school. John is survived by his loving wife Joy, their two sons, the boy’s spouses, eight grandchildren and John’s oldest sibling Glen. John was preceded in death by his parents and his sisters Nelda and Maureen. Services will be held in the Overton, NV LDS chapel at 226 W Thomas Ave, Overton, NV on Friday, September 9th at 10:00 a.m. PST. A viewing will be held that day prior to the service at 9:00.

John David Swapp

September 12, 1942 - September 1, 2022