Thomas Edward Swapp

1947 - 2022

Anacortes - Thomas Edward Swapp, passed away September 17 at the age of 74 at his home in Anacortes surrounded by family. He is survived by his wife of 31 years, Peggy, his son, Patrick (Kelsey); stepchildren: Christopher (Julia Chen) and Lindsey (Aaron Weidkamp) Gerwels; grandchildren: Ty, Tatum, and Brady Swapp, sisters: Ginger Bostian and Marianne (Tim Tobiason), a brother, John Swapp, as well as a host of other treasured family members. Thomas was preceded in death by sister, Katy Prevedell and his parents.

Thomas, known to all as Tom, Mr. Swapp, and/or Coach Swapp will also leave behind friendships, many of which are forged from a career in education and in coaching, along with countless memories carried on in the minds of thousands of students and athletes that he taught and coached.

Tom was born September 23, 1947 in Anacortes to Edmund and Frances Swapp. After graduating from Anacortes High School in 1965, he attended the University of Washington and graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree. He received his master's degree in biology from Central Washington University, and later a teaching degree from Western Washington University.

After receiving his teaching degree, Tom was fortunate to get a job teaching at Anacortes Middle School, where he spent all but one year of his teaching career. As a 7th grade bloc teacher, Mr. Swapp was able to combine high expectations with a sense of humor to create an environment in which students could thrive.

Many students remember winters reading, "A Christmas Carol," his legendary study guides with movies such as, "Gandhi," and having to write long sentences for being late to class. Tom was a learned man. In his pursuit for knowledge, he read countless books throughout his lifetime. He was also an avid sports fan, having shared many memories with friends and family at Mariners and UW Huskies games. He was an especially proud fan of his grandchildren, and a very nurturing grandfather.

What Coach Swapp is possibly most known for is his long coaching career. As the only softball coach in the history of Anacortes High School, Coach Swapp spent 42 years leading the Seahawks' softball program. Coach Swapp has more career victories than any softball coach in Washington state history, is a member of the Washington softball coaches hall of fame and led his team to a state championship in 1994. More important than all the victories, however, was the relationship he had with his players. As one of his former players wrote: "I hope you realize the wonderful memories you created and how many students and players lives you helped shape. The powerful influence you had on so many of us is incomprehensible. If everyone had a Mr. Swapp in their life, the world would be a better place."

If you wish to pay your respects, in memory of Tom and his coaching legacy, please consider donating to the Seahawk Athletic Booster Association in support of athletic programs and scholarships for Anacortes High School student athletes.

To share memories of Tom, please visit www.evanschapel.com/obituary/tom-swapp