A 16-year-old soccer player, Andrew James Swanson, took his last breath on July 6, 2025; however, the cause and circumstances of his untimely demise remain concealed.
Andrew is survived by his parents, Chuck and Faith Swanson, and his brother, CJ Swanson.
Likewise, he also leaves behind his grandmothers, Gloria Osbeck and Charlene Swanson, as well as many aunts and uncles, Tim and Jill Osbeck, Shannah (Swanson) Havens, and all his cousins and friends.
Andrew Swanson was preceded in death by his grandfathers, Russell Osbeck and Charles Swanson Sr., and his uncle, Gene Havens.
The young soccer player, Andrew, proudly played for the South Christian Sailors and AYSO United, where his passion for the game shone brightly.
He shared a deep love for soccer with his older brother, CJ Swanson, who is a talented soccer player at Unity Christian High School in Hudsonville, Michigan.
A member of the Class of 2025, CJ plays for the Unity Christian Crusaders Boys Varsity Soccer team, wearing jersey number 18.
He has been part of the team since at least the 2023 season and continues to compete in the 2025-26 season.
Both brothers played for AYSO United, and CJ’s love for the game carried into his high school career. The Crusaders, part of the Ottawa-Kent Conference Blue Division, have a strong soccer program, and CJ has made significant contributions to their efforts.
Swanson’s aunt, Shannah Havens, updated her Facebook cover picture to one featuring him, a silent tribute and expression of grief.
Beyond soccer, Andrew had many talents and interests. He enjoyed creating video games with his online community, watching Harry Potter movies with his dad, cooking and eating nachos, and riding roller coasters.
He also loved music, drinking Monster energy drinks, and spending time with family and friends.
Family and friends are invited to visit on Thursday, July 10, from 5-8 p.m. at Matthysse Kuiper DeGraaf Funeral Home, 4145 Chicago Dr, Grandville, MI 49418.
A funeral service will be held on Friday, July 11, at 11 a.m. at Ada Bible Church (Kentwood Campus), 2045 68th Street SE, Caledonia, MI 49316, with a time to greet the family starting at 10 a.m.
Andrew Swanson’s thoughtfulness and strong faith in God left a significant impact on everyone around him. A significant part of his inclination towards faith likely stems from seeing his father as a pastor.
Chuck Swanson, the father of Andrew James Swanson, has spent his life serving God and helping others grow in faith and character.
Originally from Grand Rapids, Michigan, Chuck felt a strong calling to become a pastor during his sophomore year at Liberty University, where he earned his undergraduate degree.
At Liberty, he deepened his love for studying the Bible and met his wife, Faith, with whom he has been married for over 30 years.
After Liberty, Chuck continued his education, earning two master’s degrees from Calvin Seminary and a Doctor of Ministry degree from Grand Rapids Theological Seminary.
For 16 years, he worked at Cornerstone University in Student Development, where he helped students grow as leaders, taught classes, led small groups and chapel services, and later served as the Dean of Spiritual Formation.
In 2010, he became the Lead Pastor at a community church in Jenison, Michigan, where he served for 11 years. Recently, he stepped down to pursue a Master’s in Clinical Counseling, which he plans to complete in August 2025.
Chuck is passionate about Christian education, believing it shapes people into who God calls them to be.
Through his work, Chuck strives to make a positive difference in people’s lives, helping them grow closer to God and live out their faith.
So far, neither Chuck nor Faith has broken their silence surrounding the untimely demise of their beloved son.
During this difficult time, we offer our heartfelt condolences to Andrew Swanson’s parents, brother, teammates, friends, and extended family.
Rest Easy, Andrew James Swanson!
