by Alex Lloyd Gross
Philadelphia Highway Patrol Officer Andy Chan was laid to rest today, and his viewings and services were attended by thousands. Chan died nearly seven years after a serious accident left him confined to a wheelchair. He was riding a motorcycle on Rhawn Street when an elderly motorist pulled in front of him.
There were two viewings for the popular officer. The first was held yesterday at Holy Redeemer Chinese Catholic Church, and the second took place today at the Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul in Center City. Services were held immediately following the viewing and memorial.
Chan served Philadelphia for 24 years. During that time, he impacted thousands of people’s lives, and everyone had positive words to say about him. Police were positioned outside the Basilica, and officers from as far away as New York were in attendance.
Inside the Basilica, a packed house of Chan’s family and coworkers watched as prayers were offered in his name and religious songs were sung in his honor. Outside, jumbotrons streamed the service live.
Alex Lloyd Gross Photo The services were broadcast outside.
Hundreds of police vehicles were stationed nearby to join the procession to West Laurel Hill Cemetery in Bala Cynwyd.