(South Coast Surety will post more on the passing of our founder Steven Swartz in the near future, but in the meantime here is our formal press release covering this unexpected, extremely unfortunate loss.)
May 9, 2019
Press Release
Steve Swartz, President of South Coast Surety Passed Away at Age 71
It is with great sadness that we report Steve Swartz, President of South Coast Surety suddenly passed away on May 8, 2019. Steve stood out in the surety and insurance industry for nearly 40 years. His knowledge of surety and his ability to put customers first was unparalleled.
Equally important to Steve was his community. Steve was the seated mayor of San Clemente and had previously served on the City Council since 2016. Steve served as Member and Chairman of San Clemente Beaches Park & Recreation Commission, an original member of San Clemente’s Coastal Advisory Committee, and a member and previous president of San Clemente Sunrise Rotary Club.
A leader in the industry, his knowledge, ability to communicate, and genuine affability will be greatly missed. Many of the staff at South Coast are not just employees, they are family. They will work diligently to pick up the mantle and carry forward Steve’s vision for the company. Kelly Specht, vice president of operations, will continue in leading day to day operations as she has for the past three years. Kelly expressed, “We are devastated by our loss. What he meant to us can’t be put into words.” She continued, “We want to reassure our clients we will handle their accounts with the same care and attention Steve always expected from us. He would want nothing less.”
Steve had a passion for explaining how surety works and tirelessly worked building the South Coast brand throughout southern California. “The greatest testament we can give Steve is to pick up where he left off and continue his legacy,” Kelly explained.
South Coast Surety is a subsidiary of General Indemnity Group, Boston, MA. Future South Coast Surety leadership will be the focus of GIG moving forward. Customers should know that there are no personnel changes slated and that we will take our time in deciding the best course of action. Michael Scholl, President of GIG stated, “There is no replacing Steve, that’s not possible. We will instead take our time deciding the best way to move forward ensuring we continue to grow the company he built”.
Donations are being accepted in Steve’s name at Autism Speaks and San Clemente Sunrise Rotary Club.
A Celebration of Steve’s Life will be held at 2:00 PM on Tuesday, May 21st at Bella Colina Golf Club: 200 Avendia La Plata San Clemente 92673
Questions, comments and condolences can be sent to Kelly Specht, VP, South Coast Surety at 1060 Calle Cordillera, Suites 101-103, San Clemente, CA 92673.
Direct Inquiries to:
Kelly Specht
1-800-361-1720
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