Deputy Sheriff Dennis Ray McElderry Davis County Sheriff's Department Iowa Friday, January 3, 2003  Leave a Reflection  Return to Memorial  Print This Page  Continue Building Book  Page: 1 of 132 of 133 of 134 of 135 of 136 of 137 of 138 of 139 of 1310 of 1311 of 1312 of 1313 of 13

Well Dennis, I’m here spending a quiet evening at home. I’m not quite sick but I feel like I’m coming down with something and trying to avoid it . All I really have is a low grade fever right now. I’m hoping it doesn’t become something more. You know that feeling where time’s going super slow and you just don’t have the energy to do much of anything? Anyhow, I was just sitting here and you came to mind. I was remembering one of the first times I was down to visit and I got sick. I remembered how you stayed up all night to make sure I was okay. It was sweet. I was trying to avoid going to the doctor but eventually you made sure I got there. You had court that morning so you were in uniform. After looking at the both of us people probably thought I was a prisoner you hauled in for a doctor’s visit! I couldn’t help but laugh. While I was waiting for the doctor you went off to the courthouse and asked me to meet you at the Law Center when I was done. I was sitting there wondering how the heck I was going to find the Law Center when I almost passed out. They had to call you to come get me and when you got there you found me asleep in the doctor’s office. Turned out it was a good thing you’d brought me in because it could’ve ended up being something worse if you hadn‘t. You were always looking out for me. I really miss that. Just knowing you were there always made things seem that much better. So many memories.

I was back in Iowa this summer to watch Jennifer walk down the aisle and it was full of memories. Can you believe your oldest baby is married? It hardly seems possible! I can’t help but be reminded of when I first met Jennifer. She was probably 13 and still trying to figure out who she was. I remember her going to check her timetable for the upcoming school year and coming back and telling me when she got home that when she was there she heard some boys ask, “Who’s the hot girl over there?” She told me she looked around and realized they were talking about her because there were no other girls around. That surprised her. She never thought of herself as the “hot girl.” Most girls don’t I guess. She probably doesn’t even remember telling me that story but it‘s one of my first memories of her. That, and her spending a good half hour telling me how to make “snickerdoodles!“ I still haven’t made them. I really should someday. I have so many memories of Jennifer and all the kids over the years. It’s been interesting watching them grow up, even from a distance. There have been a lot of bumps along the road and I’m sure a few guys and crushes that you weren’t too fond of but I really think she’s found a good guy. I don’t know Scott that well but he makes her happy and I’m sure he’ll do whatever he can to make sure Jennifer stays happy. The “hot girl” is now a wife and someday a mother, and who knows what else life holds in store for her. Jennifer’s finally starting to come into her own. Granted she still has a lot to learn but she has a better sense of who she is and what she wants out of life and is working hard to get there. You have to be proud of her as you are of all the kids. They are great kids!

Blake is so grown up now. Dawn sent me the link so order Blake’s senior photos not too long ago and I have to tell you he’s so handsome! Everyday I see more of you in him. He’s still got that innocence in his eyes. I hope he never loses that. Blake had a few shots taken with Grandpa and I think it’s great that they’re still so close. Your dad’s great about reminding Blake about what’s important in life and I think he needs someone to help keep him grounded sometimes. Blake’s at that age where he’s still trying to find himself, as most teenagers are. Blake a good kid but he gets himself into trouble every now and then and I hope he’s learning from those experiences. Blake’s got so much potential to do great things and I have faith that in the end he will make the right choices in life to be able to do those things. Blake will be graduating high school this year and I’m not sure what his plans are but I hope that you’ll continue to keep watching over him and guide him and the girls in the right direction. No matter how old they are they’ll always need their dad.

Taylor’s growing up too. I think she was what 6/7 years old when I first met her? Now she’s 15 and beautiful as always. Always smiling, Taylor’s just as happy mudding around with the guys as she is getting all dressed up and hanging with the girls. She’s become quite the world traveler heading to Australia last year and Austria this year. Taylor’s been exploring her faith more and even went on a mission trip this summer. She’s becoming quite a well rounded young lady! Taylor’s got a lot of big ideas about what she wants to do when she gets older though as you know nothing‘s written in stone. I’m sure whatever she chooses to do she’ll excel at. Taylor’s a hard worker. When I was down, Taylor was learning how to drive! I was a little nervous about it at first but I ended up letting her drive us to church and she did awesome. Maybe sometime she, Jennifer, and Blake can drive up to visit me. It would be nice to show them around up here sometime. I always felt bad that you and I never had the time to do more sightseeing up here like we’d planned.

Back to the wedding, the wedding was just as beautiful as the bride was! It was a blessing being included in the day. Even though you weren’t there you were very much a part of it. Jennifer made sure of it. Blake and Taylor walked Jennifer down the aisle and afterwards Jennifer lit a candle in your memory. It was perfect. I was doing fine until they did a slide show with pictures of Jennifer and Scott growing up and the tears started flowing. Looking at the pictures I saw just how much you were there for, just how much you’ve missed over the years, and just how much you are still missed. The kids may not talk about you as much anymore but it’s very obvious in the things they say and a lot of times in the things they don’t say that they miss you. We all do. Do you remember the necklace and ring you gave me on my birthday? I gave the necklace to Jennifer on her wedding day just before the ceremony. I kept the ring. I told her that she didn’t have to wear the necklace but that I wanted her to have something to know that no matter what happened in life you and I were always with her, on her wedding day and everyday. Plus she got married on her birthday and we have the same birthstone so it worked out great. All in all it was a nice day and even though you weren’t physically there I know you were there. I felt it.

A couple of weeks ago I was watching a movie with Sally Field where she becomes a vigilante of sorts, trying to bring her daughter’s killer to justice. While I was watching it I found myself thinking about the night you were killed. I hadn’t thought about that night in a long time. I remembered that dreaded knock at the door, I remembered seeing the pain in the kids eyes, and I started thinking about what would’ve happened had I done a lot of the things Sally Field had done in order to find justice. Later that night I went online only to find out the kid you were chasing the night you were killed was in trouble once again. Funny the timing of it all. Ironically, he was involved in another high speed chase in another county. This one was very similar to the one you were killed in but this time it ended up with very different results. From what I understand he was shot and last I heard was fighting for his life. I haven’t heard any updates since then. They say what goes around comes around. Was this karma? A lot of people said that he got what he deserved; his family was blaming everyone and their mother; and I wasn’t sure what to feel. I wanted to feel angry but no matter how I looked at it, it was just sad. Sad that he hadn’t learnt his lesson after spending time in jail; sad that so many people were still so angry about how you died; sad that his actions affected so many people. I realized that I never took the time to deal with my own feelings about how you died. I was always so focused on taking care of everyone else that to me how you died wasn’t important. Even when he was first charged with vehicular manslaughter after you died I found it hard to be angry at him because I knew when he set out that night he didn’t intend for someone to die and yet someone did - you. When I spoke at his sentencing I said I didn’t hold any ill will towards him because I know this wasn’t intentional but that he needed to be accountable to for his actions. He started the chain of events that led to your death. No one knows 100% what happened that night and it’s entirely possible that night that you made mistakes that put you in the wrong place at the wrong time, who knows. If you were here and you did anything wrong I’d know you’d be the first to admit to it. That’s just the kind of man you were. I know given everything that happened you’d want him to own up to his mistakes too. That’s all I wanted. The amount of jail time was irrelevant. It wasn’t going to bring you back. When I spoke I wanted him to be accountable know that the choices he made affected so many more people than just himself. I’d hope he’d learn from that for everyone’s safety. It looks like those words fell on deaf ears. Not long after you died I had this lady do a reading of sorts. She claims to connect with the “spirit world” and she said a lot of things that gave me comfort but one of the things she said that I didn’t quite understand at the time was that you “died so that someone else could live.” At first I thought maybe it was so that the kids or that I could live. It goes without saying that your death changed the course of our lives forever. But after hearing about this second high speed chase I wondered if maybe you died so that “he” could live. A second chance to clean up his life and fly right. It's twisted, but could it be? Why you? I don’t know. Maybe she was wrong. I just know I keep trying to make sense of this all, trying to understand. I don’t know that I ever will. I should really stop thinking about it. I’m just thinking out loud here but I just can’t seem to shake this feeling of sadness for everyone involved. I hope that someday even if we don’t find understanding, we’ll all find peace.

As you can tell, it’s been an emotionally charged last few months for me with trying to make sense of recent events in Iowa, trying to deal with some pretty heavy family stuff, plus the anniversary of both my dad’s passing and my good friend Doreen. (I really hope you’ve met up with them both. They were both good people in their own ways.) It’s been tough. I’ve been throwing myself into my work and spending more time with friends. I find keeping busy helps. I’m blessed to have some great friends but at the same time I’m still missing that one person who’s always there for me. The one who makes everything all worthwhile. You were that person. After six years of searching I still haven’t found that person. I still hold out hope that I will find him. But until I find him, thanks for continuing to be with me and sending me signs that you’re still here. It means more to me than you’ll ever know.


Sending lots of love and hugs to Heaven,

Joss : )
__________________________________________________________

TO WHERE YOU ARE
By: Josh Groban

Who can say for certain
Maybe you're still here
I feel you all around me
Your memory's so clear
Deep in the stillness
I can hear you speak
You're still an inspiration
Can it be

That you are my forever love
And you are watching over me
From up above
Fly me up to where you are
Beyond the distant star
I wish upon tonight
To see you smile
If only for a while to know you're there
A breath away's not far to where you are

Lie gently sleeping
Here inside my dream
And isn't faith believing
All power can't be seen
As my heart holds you
Just one beat away
I cherish all you gave me
Everyday

Cause you are my forever love
Watching me from up above
And I believe that angels breathe
And that love will live on
And never leave
Fly me up to where you are
Beyond the distant star
I wish upon tonight
To see you smile
If only for a while to know you're there
A breath away's not far to where you are

I know you're there
A breath away's not far to where you are

Jocelyne (Dennis' Fiancée)
"Forever Remembering 26-3"
2009-11-02

Deputy McElderry-
Thank you for your service. Your dedication and sacrifice will never be forgotten. It is plainly obvious you were a great cop, but more important a great family man. Judging by Jocelyn's reflections both here and on other pages and her extreme dedication to helping others overcome fallen loved ones, you must have been one hell of a Fiance. Rest easy Deputy, Keep an eye on us down here. We'll be seein you on the other side.

Miss Brar-
I knew neither you nor Deputy Mc Elderry, however I have to say you are both Heros in my eyes. I have seen many of the reflections you have left for almost every officer that has fallen in the past few years and I am amazed. They always say it takes a special kind of woman to be with a cop, but you have continued his dedication and commitment to help people in a time of need and desperation and I commend you for that. You are also a true Hero to all of those who have lost an officer and received your sympathy. Deputy Mcelderry was truly a lucky man to have you by his side. God bless you.

Deputy and Firefighter
Southwest Florida
2009-09-08

A hero is gone, but will NEVER be forgotten. Jocelyne and the rest of your family and friends remain in our thoughts and prayers down here in Florida.

Rest easy Deputy

Deputy Sheriff
Glades County Florida
2009-08-15

Joycelyn & to Dennis's family,

I missed the anniversary this year on the passing of Deputy McElderry. I hope you are all doing well. I never got to meet any of you but my dad knew the farmer that Dennis worked for. I was in Davis County in May watching my younger brother accept his high school diploma. I can only imagine how its been on you all. I hope and pray you all are doing very well. May Dennis and all of the other fallen officers continue their watch from the streets of heaven.

God Bless!!!!

Tonya Stephenson
Private Citizen, Former Iowan, Borger, Texas
2009-06-12

You will never be forgotten by your Police Brothers and Sisters. Thank you for service to your country and to your community. Rest in peace Brother.You are a hero.
This is a poem by Jon F. Hooper i think is appropriate

I AM A WARRIOR
I stand with God. I fight not for glory or fame, for they are momentary.
I fight for those who can’t. I fight for Justice.
I fight for the oppressed and the downtrodden.
And if I should lose my life for these just causes, then I have no regrets, for I serve to protect the innocent.
It matters not where or when, for evil knows no boundaries.
Be it fire, flood, or the threat of tyranny, I will not flee.
Justice is my weapon. Faith is my shield. Hope is my armor.
Cry not at my passing, for it was my honor to fight for you.
Shed not tears of sorrow, but tears of joy:
For now, I stand with God!

Colin Davies D/C 6745 (Ret)
Toronto Police Service (Canada)
2009-03-28

In a few short hours our baby will turn 15! Taylor is growing into a most beautiful, talented, and loving woman. I know you are proud of her, just as I am. She will be taking another trip abroad this summer...not as long and not quite as far away...Austria! Taylor will be traveling with the People to People Sports Ambassadors and will particpate in the Youth Friendship Games this July! What an awesome opportunity for her. Keep her safe as she travels and I will give her a hug and kiss for you.

Deb

2009-03-13

Jocelyn,

I just wanted to thank you for your kind words of comfort to others who mourn. May God bless you and keep you.

Friend of Off. Kris Fairbanks RIP 9-20-08

K.L.

2009-02-28

Forgive me for missing the anniversary of your E.O.W., but I felt as though I could not continue to read about so many tragedies. I now realize the visit each day to leave a word of encouragement and hope to the loved ones of others, helps me to remember that I am not alone with my pain and heartbreak. So may I say to your friends and loved ones that my thoughts and prayers are with them now and always. Continue to keep watch over them and those still out on patrol and may they know you will never be forgotten.

James Sheppard
Father of Sgt. Jason L. Sheppard EOW 12/7/06
2009-02-23

Forgive me for missing the anniversary of your E.O.W., but I felt as though I could not continue to read about so many tragedies. I now realize the visit each day to leave a word of encouragement and hope to the loved ones of others, helps me to remember that I am not alone with my pain and heartbreak. So may I say to your friends and loved ones that my thoughts and prayers are with them now and always. Continue to keep watch over them and those still out on patrol and may they know you will never be forgotten.

James Sheppard
Father of Sgt. Jason L. Sheppard EOW 12/7/06
2009-02-23

Rest in peace Dennis, you are gone but not forgotten...

Sergeant Chris DiToro
NYPD
2009-01-07

Jocelyne- I thought of you and Dennis's family all weekend. It really doesn't get easier does it? I really don't think time heals all wounds, but I think that time makes it easier to breathe and live. Sending you hugs.

Gypsy
Friend
2009-01-04

May you rest in peace and may The Lord bless you and all your loved ones.

Anonymous

2009-01-03

Dennis,

It is hard to believe 6 years ago today was the last time I saw you. Blake is 17 today! He has turned into quite a young man. Yesterday as we were headed to Ottumwa we were talking and I turned to look at him as he spoke and wow it was like I looked at you for a second.

I know you are always in their hearts.

Deb
ex-wife
2008-12-30

Missing you this Christmas Dennis. You're always in my heart.

Love ya Dear!

Joss :)

_________________

MERRY CHRISTMAS (WHERE EVER YOU ARE)
By: George Strait

I had no reason for shopping this season
But I hung your stocking today
It makes me feel better
Though we’re not together
You’ll always be in my heart
Merry Christmas, wherever you are

It’d be a perfect white Christmas
A storybook picture
If I could just share it with you
Though you’re not here with me
I’ve got your memories
They keep me goin’ sweetheart
Merry Christmas wherever you are

Though you’re not here with me
I’ve got your memories
You’ll always be in my heart
Merry Christmas wherever you are.

Jocelyne (Dennis' Fiance)
"Forever Remembering 26-3"
2008-12-25

Thoughts are with you

cory
friend of wife
2008-12-23

Jocylene,
I read your heartfelt message to Chuck Cassidy's ODMP and felt compelled to let you know we all appreciate the sacrifice you and the kids have given up, Dennis. My Dept. lost Officer Gregg in 2005. What a heartbreak. We are still picking up the pieces but messages like yours provide comfort to those of struggling at times.
Keeping you and your family in my prayers, Happy Thanksgiving. God Speed, Dennis.

Officer Colleen Rosenfeld
Newtown Borough P.D.
2008-11-25

Thank-you sir for your service.

Joe
Citizen
2008-10-17

God Bless you Sir

Andrew

2008-10-17

Dennis,

I still remember the night that you had passed and the radio traffic. My heart sank when I found out that you were gone. I have always been inspired by you and know that you will always be watching our backs. God bless you.

Eric

FPD

2008-09-22

hey dennis - just checking in on you here at odmp. for some reason you ran across my mind. i pray for joss all the time. she is so wonderful - im glad that you are sending her "signs"..
i hope you are enjoying Heaven and have met up with dan!
- jessica bankston

jessica

2008-08-03

Dennis,

I know I was just here the other day but I just had to say thanks for the "sign" you sent me the other day. Well maybe it wasn't a sign, maybe it was just a huge coincidence, but I took it to be a sign and somehow it came just at the right time. With your birthday just recently gone by I'd been thinking about you and missing you a lot. I've also been dealing with a few stressful situations in my life and you always seem to come to mind when I'm trying to sort things out. You were always my rock, great at giving advice, but also great at listening so whenever something happens I always pray that you'll guide me in the right direction. A lot of times I find myself thinking, "What would Dennis do?" Actually, it’s pretty silly but sometimes when I'm conscious that you're around me I find myself having to be on "good behaviour" because I wonder what you'd think. I remember something so small as going through the Arby's drive thru once and the lady giving me too much change back. When I realized the mistake I had to drive back and give it to her, even though it was out of the way, because I knew you were watching me. It's funny this effect you've had on me. I guess if I’ve become a better person since you died, in part it will be because of you. : )

Anyhow, back to the sign, the other day I was driving home from work and I saw an Iowa license plate. I almost never see them up here, even though I know people from Iowa come up here. The last time I remember seeing one up here was when you were up to visit. That’s how long it’s been! Anyhow, seeing that plate after a stressful day seemed to calm me down. I followed the car for a bit and it turned off. Then a song came on the radio. I wasn’t paying much attention to it at first but when I turned the corner the song seemed to get louder and I found myself stopped at a red light. Driving right in front of me was a car with Manitoba plates on it that said JO MAC and my heart just leapt. What were the odds of seeing both those plates in sequence like that? As I drove following this car I made a point to listen to the words of the song and I knew this was too much of a coincidence. The song was about a man who was about to head off to war and he was giving his friends his final wishes just in case he didn’t make it back. The words hit close to home and when I got home I looked up the lyrics and realized it had to be a sign from you . A sign that you are still with me, at least some of the time, and I‘m so glad you‘re here. I want you to know I heard your message and I took those words to heart. Thanks for being here for me and for letting me know you‘re still looking out for me.

Sending you hugs, kisses, and all of my love,


Joss : )


PS: Call me crazy, but I do really believe all those coincidences rolled into had to be a sign. I looked up the words to the song and posted part of them here. I changed them around to relate to Dennis. I hope I did his message justice.


IF I DON’T MAKE IT BACK
By: Tracy Lawrence

Have a ’Dew for me, don't waste no tears on me
On Friday night sit on the visitors side
And cheer for the kids teams.
Drive my patrol car, 90 miles an hour down gravel road
With 'Born to Run' blastin' on the radio
And find someone good enough for Jocelyne
Who will love her like I would have
If I don't make it back

If the good Lord calls me home
I'd like to think my friends
Will think about me when I'm gone …

Jocelyne
"Forever Loving & Missing 26-3"
2008-06-23

Hi Dennis,

I was just sitting here thinking about you and not just because today would’ve been your birthday. You’ve been on my mind a lot lately. I was actually in Iowa last week “making the rounds” and no matter where I ended up your memory is still everywhere. It may have been five years since you’ve been gone but people haven’t forgotten the person that you were and the difference you made in their lives.

You know, I always have panic attacks before I leave for Iowa. Given the distance and the time that’s passed I’m never quite sure where I fit down there and I always question whether or not I should keep coming down but once I get there I realize just how much it feels like home. People are very good about looking out for me, making sure I feel welcome, and trying to convince me to move back! Your mom, dad, and sisters always open up their homes to me; the Harsch’s have kind of adopted me; people at the Law Center still make a point to reach out to me; and the kids always make a point to make some time for me even with their busy schedules. It’s such a blessing that they continue to make me a part of their lives. They’ve all become a part of my “family” and I always say if I were ever to get married my guy would end up with two sets of in-laws. My Winnipeg family and my Iowa family. : )

As I’m sure you’ve noticed but the “children of the corn,” as I like to call them, are growing up fast. I watched Buddy get married while I was down. He’s grown up a lot since you last saw him and I have to tell you the Harsch’s clean up nicely! If it weren’t for their smiles you’d hardly recognize them! LOL Needless to say the wedding was beautiful but it was hard not to be reminded about how you should’ve been there with me holding my hand, eating up a storm, and sharing a few dances. It was a bittersweet moment as I’m sure it will be when Jennifer gets married next year. I know she really wishes her dad could be there but not to worry, we‘ll still make a point to make your presence known. I told Jennifer I’d try to help out with the wedding as much as I can as I know we would’ve had you still been with us. I have to tell you, Jennifer’s matured so much in the last year. You’d be proud. Jennifer seems to have developed your work ethic and is working a lot of hours at the bank. She took time off from college but recently decided to finish her criminal justice degree. I don’t know that she’ll ever work in law enforcement but I’m proud that at the very least she’s finishing what she started and it will be there for her should she ever choose to use it. Jennifer’s very excited about building a life with Scott. I’ve only ever met Scott a time or two so I can’t say a lot about him other than that he makes her smile and it‘s great to see her smiling. Like you, and all the kids, she‘s got a great smile! Jennifer & Scott just bought a house and it’s beautiful. I’m sure they’ll very quickly make that house “home.”

Speaking of “home,“ Blake seems to have made himself at home over at Dawn & Kelly’s place and in Davis County. He’s grown up and changed so much over the last year. Blake’s going to be a junior this year and has brought his grades up from where they were in Ankeny. Blake’s got a part time job over at Pamida. I remember going in there with him years ago and him always begging me to buy video games. Now he gets a discount on them. LOL Blake has his first official girlfriend, at least that I know of, and while I never got to meet her while I was down he always seemed to be smiling a lot and I‘m sure that has to do, in part, with her. It’s almost hard to believe. I still think back about how when I first met him he used to blush at even the thought of having a girlfriend. Now he has one! Blake has a driver’s license now and is quickly marking his rounds around Davis County just as I’m sure you did in your younger days. He drove your mom, dad and I to lunch at Ray’s last week and I got this really neat picture of your dad in the passenger seat and Blake driving making sure to go the speed limit, of course! It was just a great reminder of the bond they share and it’s such a blessing to know no matter how old he gets Grandpa Mac is always there for him. More and more people keep saying Blake looks so much like you and he really does. He’s tall and thin and sometimes he even makes the same noises you used to when he cleared his throat, etc. It’s not to see you sitting there when you look at him. I called him before I left and I think I woke him up, of course he wouldn’t admit to it and said he was just getting up. It took me back to all those times I’d call you after a late night at work and how you’d never want me to think I’d troubled you and woke you up. You’d always say you were just getting up. It’s funny how all those “little things” live on in your kids. So many memories.

I’m sure I don’t have to tell you how much Taylor has grown up the last year. Taylor’s about as tall as I am if not taller, but not to worry I’m still better looking! Just kidding, she’s beautiful. It seems like every week there’s a new boy she’s interested in and which ever one ends up stealing her heart is going to be one lucky guy. Taylor seems to be doing well at school and is still an amazing softball player. From what I understand she joined the track team and is a pretty good runner. I’m sure she gets that from you. While I haven’t seen her run I’d be willing to bet she could outrun you any day. LOL Taylor leaves today for Australia, of all places, on a student exchange program. It’s her first major trip and I know she’s pretty excited for this new experience. I’m sure she’ll have an awesome time and I’m sure you’ll watch over her. I told her to make sure to send me a postcard or two and to save some of the good looking Aussies for the rest of us. LOL

Anyhow, the kids are certainly doing well and have changed a lot over the last while. One of the things that‘s changed that you‘ll be proud of is that Blake, Taylor, and Jennifer have really bonded as siblings. They used to fight like cats and dogs, as I’m sure you remember, and there was a time I never thought I’d see them get along. Now they are the best of friends and they always know they’ve got each other’s backs. They’ve all come a long way in the last year or so and I’m proud of the people they are becoming as I’m sure you are proud being their dad. It makes me sad that we’re not there to be a part of their daily lives and it’s always really hard to leave Iowa but I’m blessed that we’re able to continue to be a part of their lives from a distance … you from Heaven and Me in Canada.

As far as leaving goes, I had a really hard time leaving Iowa this last visit. I stopped by the Law Center and I saw the same sad eyes I saw the first time I walked into the Law Center after you were killed. Those same eyes and that sadness have haunted me for a long time and it took me back to a time I’ve been trying to forget. A lot of officers have come and gone since you died but those same “eyes” were there that day. Needless to say, my heart jumped the minute I saw that “look” and I knew whatever it was wasn’t a good thing. I was told that Wes’ wife had been in a pretty nasty car accident with their two boys. The youngest one was killed instantly and it broke my heart. Wes has been pretty good to me over the years and I can’t even begin to imagine what his family might be going through, though I know it hurts. I wouldn’t wish that pain on anyone. When I saw how everyone at the Law Center reacted to the news I was reminded at just how much the Law Center really is a “family,“ how everyone reached out to me and me a part of their family when we lost you, and just how much they hurt when a member of the “family” is lost. It doesn’t have to be an officer that was killed, even the news of a family member or friend of an officer being hurt or killed affected the “family.” So when I heard the news I hurt too. I wanted to stay in Iowa for the funeral but I realized there wasn’t much I could do. On my way out of town I stopped by the cemetery to see you, let out a lot of tears, and sent a prayer to you to take care of Quentin. It was the least I could do. I’m sure he’ll need someone to look out for him up there and I can‘t think of anyone better to ask. I hope you heard my prayer and all the prayers I’ve sent to you over the years. I love you and I miss you. Know that no matter where life takes me you’re always a part of “my family” and my heart. Thank you for being a part of my life even from a distance.

Happy Birthday Hon!


Joss : )


~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ *

THANK YOU
By: Johnny Reid

If I only had two words left to say to you.
With my last breath I'd confess the truth to you.
You've never left my side, even when I fell behind.

Thank-you, thank-you for the life you've given me.
Thank-you for sharing all your love and all your dreams.
Thank-you for every tear of happiness I've cried.
Thank-you for laying down beside me here tonight.

When I close my eyes, I say a prayer for one more day with you.
And when I wake, I embrace the one who pulls me though.
Who pulls me through the storm when I can't go on.

Thank-you, thank-you for the life you've given me.
Thank-you for sharing all your love and all your dreams.
Thank-you, for every tear of happiness I've cried.
Thank-you for laying down beside me here tonight.

You've never let me down.
Its like you don't know how.
Thank-you, thank-you for the life you've given me.
Thank-you, for sharing all your love and all your dreams.
Thank-you.
Thank-you.

Jocelyne (Dennis' fiancee)
"Forever Missing & Loving 26-3"
2008-06-19

To my cousin Dennis,

I was back home a month or so ago and was out and about with my mom, I came across this very tall, thin, young man, and as soon as I looked at his face knew it was "Dennis JR"...Blake looks exactly like you with his actions and all but how could he not, look who he had to look up to. I think the last time I saw the kids was at my little sisters wedding a couple years ago. Jennifer, Blake and Taylor have all grown soo much they are all fine young adults, I remember babysitting when Taylor was so very little. I thought at that time they were very well behaved.

Anyway, I just wanted to let you know and I would have sooner if I knew about this page, but I looked up to you as well. I think it was that summer that I babysat for you that I gained so much respect for you and you became more then just a cousin, and then when you joined the sheriffs department my respect just grew. Growing up I remember at family get togethers I didn't feel like I fit in, I was at the age I was "way younger" then all of my cousins and "way older" then all of the second cousins, but there was something about you that made me feel more comfortable, you joked with me and teased me like you did the "older cousins" and you didn't baby me like everyone did the "younger cousins" if that makes any since at all.

I miss going to the DC fair and the Drakesville reunion seeing you walking around with such pride in your uniform and the 1st canoe carnival that you wern't out in the water making sure everyone was safe...it didn't feel like we should have started without the safty boat complete.

Gone but not forgotten, you are missed by many people
Ruth

Ruth (Shockley) Schroeder

2008-06-19

Happy Birthday in Heaven. I am think of you and your family. Keeping you in prayers Jocelynne

Gypsy

2008-06-19

I searched Ray out after reading his fiancee's post on the page for our fallen brother, PC Rob Plunkett. I was touched she would take the time to leave a reflection for him, and wanted to repay her kindness.

I believe that this proves that as long as WE remember them, they will never be forgotten. I add Ray to the long list of fallen brothers and sisters that I honor daily in the course of my duties. They are never far from my thoughts.

PC Pandolfi #1249
York Regional Police, Ontario Canada
1249@yrp.ca

PC Amanda Pandolfi
York Regional Police (Ontario)
2008-06-05