Online Fundraiser Created For CPD Officer Patsy Swank Funeral Costs

CHICAGO — Friends have organized an online fundraiser to cover the funeral expenses for a 29-year-old Chicago police officer, who leaves a 5-year-old son.

Patricia “Patsy” Swank took her own life on July 2. She leaves behind many loved ones, but most importantly, her son, Scottie.

“Her family and friends are devastated. While we struggle to live life without our ray of sunshine, we ask for your help to cover funeral expenses and her son's future. Thank you for your love and support at this time.”

The GoFundMe campaign has raised over $58,000 toward a $75,000 goal. She was a 6-year veteran of the Chicago Police Department. Swank was a graduate of St. Catherine of Alexandria School in Oak Lawn, and a graduate of Mother McAuley High School, where she lettered in Lacrosse and basketball.

Visitation for Swank is set for July 10 from 1 to 6 p.m., with a Mass of Christian burial at 10 a.m. July 11. Both events take place at St. Rita Cascia Shrine Chapel, 7740 S. Western Ave., Chicago. Arrangements are entrusted to Blake-Lamb Funeral Home in Oak Lawn.

Memories and expressions of sympathy for the Swank family may be left on the officer’s obituary. Wrote a CPD colleague:

"I'm a fellow female Chicago Police Officer. I did not work with Officer Swank, but my heart is saddened but the loss of one of us. We've lost too many. Police work is difficult, but as a female police officer we deal with additional challenges, especially raising a child with long and strenuous hours in an unfriendly environment. Patricia's experience has reminded us that we need to be kind, to help one another, and to stay strong. May she rest in peace."

Donations are being accepted here for CPD Officer Patricia "Patsy" Swank's funeral costs and for the care of her young son.