Officer Down Memorial Page

I am proud to have had my intended name changed when Wayne was killed, to honor and remember him. This was carried forward when we named my son also with the middle name of Wayne. I was never able to meet my Uncle Wayne because my mom was pregnant with me at the time he gave his life protecting others. His memory will always be a part of us and our family.

Steven Wayne Vonk
Nephew
May 23, 2012

I have fond memories of our years at Wyoming High School. I had moved away at the time of your passing - you are missed. I'm proud to say we were friends.

Sheilah Smith Capurro, Sparks, NV
High School classmate
March 5, 2012

Your heroism and service is honored today, the 43rd anniversary of your death. Your memory lives and you continue to inspire. Thank you for your service. My cherished son Larry Lasater was a fellow police officer murdered in the line of duty on April 24, 2005 while serving as a Pittsburg, CA police officer.

Time never dimishes respect and your memory will always be honored and revered..

Rest In Peace

Phyllis Loya
Mom of fallen California Officer Larry Lasater, Pittsburg PD, eow 4/24/05
January 19, 2012

My thoughts: 21 years old and very courageous. He leaves a legacy of bravery for the current members of the Grand Rapids, Michigan Police Department.

Sgt. Scott Bodah
Syracuse, New York Police Department
December 2, 2009

To the Family of Officer Vonk,

My prayers go out to you. Wayne's useless death brings back very vivid memories of when my shift lieutenant lost his life in the line of duty: Lt. James Vigi (August 1973-Alamogordo, NW Department of Public Safety.

May the Good Lord Blees you and may He carry you through this and give you strength.

My prayers are with you!

Respectfully,

Mike Brown
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
Former Alamorgordo DPS officer

Mike Brown-Former Officer
Alamogord, NM DPS
November 30, 2009

Wayne,
It's been over 40 years ago since you gave your life. I have thought about you often over the intervening years.

I was thinking about you again today. You were a fine young man and I was happy to be a friend. RIP brother.

Richard H. Besser, former Patrolman
GRPD, friend
April 12, 2009

Your legacy lives on in Ann Arbor and by all those who serve "In the Arena." You will never be forgotten. Thank you GRPD for your professionalism and compassion.

Michigan Resident
May 3, 2008

YOU ARE REMEMBERED TODAY AND THANK YOU SIR FOR YOUR SERVICE

VANDENBERGHE
MANCHESTER, NH
January 11, 2008

I was just a few years old when you were killed in the line of duty. Saw your memorial page today. Sad to read about what happened to you, and at such a young age. My thoughts are with you and your family. Rest in peace. Thank you for all you did.

Michigan Resident
September 26, 2004

I spoke to your brother the other day. Your family misses you dearly. Thank you for your sacrifice and rest in peace knowing you will never be forgotten.

Det. Michael Maycroft
Grand Rapids Police Department
September 16, 2004