WATSONVILLE — Ken Schwan, a big name in the food industry around the Pajaro Valley, is on a long road to recovery following a major crash he survived last month on his motorcycle near Palm Springs.
Schwan, who has owned Monterey Bay Caterers with his wife, Kathy, for the past 36 years, is widely known for his catering of hundreds of local business events and various celebrations. He is also a major donor to scads of local events including sports teams, the Watsonville Senior Center, local charities and umpteen fundraisers.
On March 16, according to the website gofundme.com, Schwan was on a motorcycle trip with a fellow motorcyclist to view major league baseball spring training in Arizona. Upon his return, Schwan and his friend went to take a coffee break at a Starbucks when he was struck broadside by a tow truck. His friend was not hurt.
Schwan suffered multiple extensive injuries, the article on GoFundMe reported. He was flown by helicopter to a nearby trauma center with broken and fractured bones and has thus undergone numerous surgeries. Several more surgeries are still planned. The article on GoFundMe states: “At this point, (Ken) is starting the process of recovery.”
Long-time friend Kathy Kenerson said she was devastated by the news of the crash. She said that Schwan is one of the most generous people she has met and that he has given endlessly to the community. She said Schwan is being cared for at Desert Regional Medical Center.
Sandwiched between two massive smiley faces painted on exterior walls on West Lake Avenue, Monterey Bay Caterers also functions as a restaurant with daily specials and indoor and outdoor seating.
The GoFundMe account also states: “The good news is, while he has a long road to recover, Ken is expected to be OK. The expenses are going to be astronomical and a lot of people have asked about a GoFundMe.”
To contribute to the Ken Schwan account, visit www.gofundme.com and enter his name in the “search” box.
