Lieutenant Thomas Sumner Rettberg

Lieutenant Thomas Sumner Rettberg | Utah Highway Patrol, Utah
Utah Highway Patrol, Utah
Lieutenant Thomas Sumner Rettberg

Utah Highway Patrol, Utah

End of Watch Friday, February 11, 2000

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Thomas Sumner Rettberg

Lieutenant Thomas Rettberg was killed when the OH-58 Bell helicopter he was piloting crashed during a routine maintenance flight.

The rotor blades seized up during the flight, causing the crash. The helicopter then landed on its side in a field. A mechanic onboard was also killed.

Lieutenant Rettberg was a U.S. Navy veteran. He had served with the Utah Highway Patrol for 25 years, and had been a pilot for 22 years. He is survived by his wife, three children, five grandchildren, three great grandchildren, and a sister.

Bio

  • Age 58
  • Tour 25 years
  • Badge 136
  • Military Veteran

Incident Details

  • Cause Aircraft accident

helicopter crash

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I think about you often, but lately you’ve been on my mind more frequently, remembering the fun times we had and our unrealized plans for family things to do in retirement. The memories bring a smile, but the pain of your loss and the times we’ll never have wash over me still. Your ODMP picture and profile just popped up in a split screen while I was working on emails! What are the chances? Somehow, I believe you sent a message that you hear me and to comfort me. I love you Tom and will remember and miss you always till we meet on the other side……

Betty Spangler, sister

September 2, 2023

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