David Swanger

David Ray Swanger was born in Bakersfield, Ca, on Jan 15, 1951, to Myrna Jean and Elmer Harrison Swanger, along with his siblings Carol, Brad, Jean, and Sally. After graduating high school, Dave attended two years of schooling at Mira Costa Community College in Oceanside, Ca. Shortly after, he joined the United States Army, serving from 1969-1972, where he trained and worked as a national defense service rifle expert and equipment engineer. He greatly enjoyed his time stationed in Germany, where his travels and experiences gave him lasting memories he passed on to his family.

Dave married Cynthia Eileen Porras on May 10th, 1975, in Lomita, Ca. Together they had five children; Wendy, David, Carie, Sarah, and Kayla, which they raised together at their family home in Hemet, CA. At the time of his passing, Dave and Cindy had just celebrated their 47th wedding anniversary. Along with their many children, Dave and Cindy have been blessed with 12 grandchildren; Gabriel, Alyssa, Guillermo, Rayth, Julie Ann, Mateo, Sequoia, Madison, Robert, Daven, Aaron, and baby Ryder on the way!

As a devoted husband, father, and grandfather, Dave spent much of his time with his family. However, in his free time, he enjoyed many hobbies, which included watching sports and politics, fishing, woodworking, and playing acoustic guitar; Stairway to Heaven was his favorite piece.  

David (71) passed on August 22, 2022, peacefully in his home, surrounded by his family. He will always be remembered for his entertaining stories, his silent strength, and for being the ‘calm’ in all of our lives. He is lost in our lives, not in our hearts, and he will greatly be missed!