Family, Friends & Fellow Officers Remember...

Deputy Sheriff Edward M. Schrader

Riverside County Sheriff's Department, California

End of Watch Thursday, July 11, 1974

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Reflections for Deputy Sheriff Edward M. Schrader

My heart breaks as I was a part of it. Michael's wife took me to labor and delivery on the night of that day my daughter was born and my husband had gone back to get me clean clothes. Never returned until it was over. He was a witness to it all. That child became a sheriffs deputy. This will haunt me for life.

Clara Kruger
Witness

June 22, 2023

RIP sir, never to be forgotten.

Retired First Sergeant Thomas Webb
New York State Police - Troop "D"

October 20, 2020

Thank you for your service and please know that your sacrifice is one that will never be forgotten. Rest in peace always.

Detective Cpl/3 Steven Rizzo
Delaware State Police (Retired)

July 11, 2020

It's hard to believe that nearly 46 years have passed; just like the movie - Ed you will be "Forever Young" and always missed.

Deputy (Ret.) Fred Farnow
Riverside County Sheriff, California

May 11, 2020

I just ran across this memorial page for Deputy Sheriff Edward M. Schrader. Like Fred Farnow, I was a classmate of Ed’s in the 55th Basic Academy. We sat in class alphabetically, my name came after Schrader. Whatever the class, Ed sat immediately to my right. Fred, another 55th Basic classmate, Daniel Gann, and I worked the swing shift at the Riverside jail when Ed’s murderer was booked. As I’m sure Fred and Dan will tell you, this was a most difficult task to maintain professional objectivity while housing, feeding and caring for his needs as an inmate.

Some of you on this page have asked about the murderer and Ed’s younger sister, Kathy, has provided you his name which can’t be found via a web search. Additionally, Fred and Kathy identified him as a US Marine Sergeant, at the time of the incident, assigned to Camp Pendleton who was AWOL and absolutely not worthy of the title of a Marine. Some of you have indicated that you have tried but are unable to find more details. The reason is the current California Penal Systems’ politics of not offending anyone and protecting the rights, I say that loosely, of the offender has removed or prevented the dissemination of this information.

So, I’ll try to provide some more detail, however, my elaboration is based on my failing memory over time. But, as Fred stated, because of the closeness of all of us in the 55th Basic, I think I’m reasonably factual. The murderer’s full name is Michael Carnell Williams. Ed was 24 at the time and Williams was 26. Ed was the first on the scene of a domestic dispute and contacted Williams’ wife, the reporting party, out of sight of their apartment. The wife informed Ed of Williams’ believed whereabouts at the apartment and Ed set out to contact him in an attempt to defuse and resolve the dispute. It is worth mentioning that Ed typified the cop that “just wants to help people”. He believed there is good in everyone and, given the chance, every dispute or disagreement could be resolved amicably. Williams, armed with a handgun, surprised Ed as he came around a corner prior to reaching Williams’ apartment. At gunpoint Williams took Ed’s handgun then immediately shot him point blank in the chest with it. He accepted a plea bargain of Manslaughter with seven years against the first degree murder of a law enforcement officer, a charge that, at that time, warranted the death penalty. An offer which was very disturbing to all of us in law enforcement, especially those who knew Ed, as I’m sure it was to Ed’s family and friends. As memory serves me, Williams was dishonorably discharged from the Marine Corp. He was paroled in five years to the San Francisco area and disappeared.


p.s. Taryn Walters Ontiveros, I knew your father only briefly and, eventually, worked for the same department. I read the EOW dedication to him every year. He was not only a good officer that served the City of Riverside well, but was a good man and a good father.

Cory Sheffield, Police Officer & Dep
Riverside Police Dept./Riverside Sheriff’s Dept.

April 29, 2020

I was just out of 8th grade when my cousin Eddie was killed. As kids & cousins, Eddie, his brother & 2 sisters would have many get togethers with my sister and 3 brothers (family celebrations, July 4th fireworks). His funeral was so surreal it was the first death I ever experienced, and there were so many officers - seemed like thousands. When I saw him laying in his casket, I recall a neatly pressed tan shirt and placed my hand on his chest so I could feel if he was breathing (I so wanted to feel him breathing). All the family was in a terrible state of grief and shock. It was heartbreaking. Eddie was such a funny, kind, caring person
who is gone too soon & forever young. I know he is in heaven with many family, relatives and friends.

Lori Schrader-Stacey
Cousin

August 17, 2019

Rest in peace Deputy Sheriff Schrader.

Rabbi Lewis S. Davis

July 11, 2019

Rest In Peace Brother in Blue. You are honored and remembered on the 44th anniversary of your EOW. You are not forgotten.

Officer Mike Robinson (Ret.)
Upland Police Dept. CA

July 11, 2018

Deputy Sheriff Edward Schrader, A brother Law Enforcement Officer. It's been 42 years now and I still remember the day I attended your funeral. I was 21 years old and had only 6 months with the San Jacinto Police Department. There were hundreds of fellow police officers joined with me to say goodbye to a brother officer who sacrificed his life to protect others. I was only 3 years younger and your on duty death left me with an "Officer Safety" mindset for the next 30 years of my career with the Banning Police, Hemet Police, and Montana Highway Patrol. Although I attended numerous officer survival classes to help me during "High Risk Situations", I would
recall the day I stood by your open casket and said goodbye. That in itself was a form of Officer survival which kept me safe. It was like you were there watching over me during many life threating situations. Thanks for serving Riverside County and the State of California. May you be one of the first to greet me at Heaven's Gate. I'll be looking for you..... Adam - Molt, Montana

Montana State Trooper / Retired
Montana Highway Patrol

March 23, 2016

My name is Bob Muth, although RSO never recorded me as being there there, I was, as a reporter for the Rancho News. Remember the Kent Hintergardt news photo? I took the same thing of Ed, but that was single, only pic. I joined a deputy trying to give Ed CPR, I put my camera on the grass and helped continuing CPR until medics arrived, told the deputy (no name) that I thought he was gone, still eyes, small bullet hole, little blood.

Private citizen, reporter, gave CPR
Went for Rancho News reporter

February 16, 2013

The city in which I now live is constructing a war memorial. In passing by this area, it brought back memories of a family I have known since childhood, the Schraders. When the news of Eddie's death was given I was on a small vacation with his youngest sister and friends. The silence and grief that flows through your veins when you hear that kind of news is something you never forget. I realize the memorial being constructed says "War Heroes" - but this man will always be a hero in my heart. His family went through such a hard time - losing their eldest son, brother, husband. The procession on Eddie's funeral day was the longest I have ever witnessed, showing the world what had been lost. His dad is with him now, as are others from the family and will live on forever in hearts they have touched. Every time I pass this new memorial - I will think of him, as Hero's come in all forms. And I know he will always be a hero to the Schraders and those whose lives he touched.

Mary Ann
Friend of Family

October 27, 2012

To answer Deputy Sheila Dickson. The name of the killer of my brother is Michael Williams (25 years old). At the time he was a Marine Sgt AWOL from Camp Pendleton Ca.

No Rank Kathy Schrader Davis
Sister

May 18, 2012

My big brother, I miss you and think of you every day. With your birthday just passing I have been reflecting back on so many happy childhood memories. I was always so happy and proud to be around you. I know you were there for Dad when he left us in July, it seems kind of ironic that he passed on 7/7 and you on 7/11 Oh how I wish you were still here with all of us. We would have so much fun as we always did. I know you are surrounded by all of our loving family that is there with you in heaven. Please continue to look after me from heaven as I know you have been doing, I have felt your presence many many times. I miss you so much and love you with all my heart.
Your baby sister Kathy.

Kathy Schrader - Davis
Sister

May 18, 2012

Rest in Peace, Deputy Schrader. Your sacrifice is not forgotten.

Officer 11169

January 19, 2012

In reference to recent posting: I stand corrected. The "killer" was not my parents friend....His wife was....My parents did not know him.

Deputy Sheila Dickson
Bonneville County Sheriffs Office, Idaho

January 13, 2012

I did not know Deputy Schrader, however through the years I have not been able to get him out of my head. I was born July 10, 1974. For whatever reason I chose the Law Enforcement path at age 23. It has now been almost 14 yrs as a County Deputy. The reason I share this is becuase about 3 years into my career my mother and another gentleman had a conversation over a drink in a small off the beaten path back woods country road bar/grill in Idaho. They spoke about their past, including children, places they'd lived etc.. Somehow they connected when My mother told him that I was born in California....That my father was in the military and they had been living in military housing in ElRancho Del Ray. The man then told my mother of his friend and co-worker, Edward Schrader, who was shot and killed July 11, 1974. My mom remembers the incident, not completly, but enough that they have an in debth conversation about it. My mother was in the hospital with me, a brand new baby. On the 11th she waited and waited for my father to come and pick us up and he never came. She later found out that my father had been a witness to the incident and was talking with law enforcement. The killer had been a friend to my parents, his wife was the one that actually drove my mother to the hospital when she went into labor with me.
Since I heard this story, I have searched and researched for anything that would give me peace. In 2000 I was fortunate enough to get to participate in the National Law Enforcement Memorial Week in DC. While there, I made sure to find Mr. Schraders name on the wall and get a copy of it with the provided paper and pencils.
Deputy Schrader is constantly on my mind. Im not sure why other than I cant let go of all the "connections" we seem to have. He died the day after I was born, My father was there, my mother would have been, if she hadnt been giving birth to me. He was turning 23 when he started his career in Law Enforcement, I had just turned 23.
I've asked and asked about the killer and unfortunatly nobody can seem to remember his name, or if he was convicted or not. I have hit dead ends on the internet searches. Guess just for peace of mind, I'd like to know...
To Deputy Schraders family: Im so sorry for your loss. Sounds like he was an amazing person.
Mr. Schrader: thank you for watching over me through the years, I look forward to meeting you one day.

Deputy Sheila Dickson
Bonneville County Sheriffs Office, Idaho

January 13, 2012

My husband witnessed this killing. I gave birth to a daughter that same moment who is now a sheriffs deputy. Ed has never left me heart. I am looking for answers of any kind, as it also haunts my daughter. Please respond.

Clara Moore Kruger
Witness

January 13, 2012

I was only 5 years old when Uncle Eddie was killed in the line of duty. Although I was young, I do remember a few memorable moments I had with him. When my dad talks about Ed, he has nothing but great things to say about my Uncle, his brother-in-law. I write this today, because my wife's very close cousin Vallejo Police Officer James Capoot was shot and killed today 11-17-11 in the line of duty. Uncle Eddie and Jimmy you will be missed but.. "Never Forgotten"

Scott Grier (Fire Engineer)
Chino Valley Fire Dept. (Nephew)

November 18, 2011

Ed Schrader was my friend and my classmate in the 55th Basic Academy of the Riverside County Sheriff. His badge number was 93 and it was given to his widow by then-sheriff Ben Clark. In the academy class, he joked that his badge number was easy to remember because it was the year in which he would have completed 20 years in law enforcement. In addition to the badge and the number thereon, we each had a permanent ID number. Mine was 497 and Ed's was within a few numbers of mine - as were the IDs of all the men of the 55th basic Academy who were hired in February 1973. Ed had a wonderful sense of humor and a big smile that absolutely radiated. I will never forget that horrible afternoon when I was informed of my friend's murder at the hands of an AWOL US Marine who did not deserve the title. Every July 11 I have reflected on your life and death Ed, and as 15:00 hours approach I cannot help but shed a tear. I'll see your smile again some day my brother; In the interim dear friend, know that you will never be forgotten.

F. W. Farnow, Deputy Sheriff, Retired
Riverside County Sheriff

November 2, 2011

Uncle Eddie, I have always heard nothing but how heroic you were as a person and protector growing up. I am the oldest daughter of your only brother. My husband and his family are all law enforcement officers and it is with great honor and pride that we remember you on your 37th anniversary today, July 11th 2011. You gave your life protecting the people and that will NEVER be forgotten. You will always be in our hearts. I know that you and Schramps are in heaven watching over me and I thank you for that. I love you and am looking forward to meeting you some day.

Jackie (Schrader) Petropulos
Niece of Edward Schrader

July 12, 2011

Your heroism and service is honored today, the 36th 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 who was murdered in the line of duty on April 24, 2005 while serving as a Pittsburg, CA police officer.

Time never diminishes respect. Your memory will always be honored and revered.

Rest In Peace.

Phyllis Loya

Phyllis Loya
mother of fallen officer Larry Lasater

July 11, 2010

On the day you lost your life, I was just beginning my second day of recruit training at MCRD San Diego. I could never have known it at the time but you and others like you and the examples you set would shape my life. I hope that the life I have led would measure up to the standard that you set. Rest in peace, Sir.

AZ Narc

May 2, 2009

As my career's end is coming closer, I decided to check and find those who had lost their lives during the year that I was hired. While it's been many years since your passing, I'm sure those you left behind and those whom with you served with distinction have kept you alive in their memories. Thank you for your service and for looking out for us who continue in our chosen profession. Rest in peace Deputy Schrader.

Sgt. Robert Mau Sr.
PD Joliet IL

December 17, 2008

I did not personally meet this man, but, this is "was" my mothers husband when he was killed in the line of duty. I have heard nothing but great and heroic things about Ed and for someone at his age to serve and protect is a great thing in my eyes. I know that there is not a day that goes by that my mother doesn;t think about Ed. He made a great impact on peoples lives while protecting. To think that I am now 25 and he was only 24 when he passed. It is a sure shame to know that he had many more lives to change. RIP ED.

Jennifer Vaughan - No Rank
Mothers Husband when he was killed

December 3, 2008

"The Badge"
He starts his shift each day
To respond to calls unknown.
He drives a marked patrol car.
A police officer he is known.
He's paid by the citizens' taxes
To make it safe on the streets.
But he usually has a second job
'Cause a waitress has his salary beat.
Now he doesn't know a holiday
'Cause he works all year round.
And when Thanksgiving and Christmas finally arrive
At his home he cannot be found.
He's cursed and assaulted often,
The one whos blood runs blue.
He seldom ever gets a thanks,
To some he's just a fool.
His friends are always other cops
'Cause people just don't understand
That underneath his badge and gun,
He's just another man.
He knows there might not be a tomorrow
In this world of drugs and crime.
And he gets so mad at the court system
'Cause the crooks don't get any time.
And each day when he leaves for work,
He prays to God above.
Please bring me home after my shift
So I can see the ones I love.
But tonight he stops a speeding car,
He's alone down this ole' highway.
It's just a little traffic infraction.
He does it everyday.
Well, he walks up to the driver's window,
And his badge is shining bright.
He asked the guy for a driver's license,
When a shot rang through the night.
Yes, the bullet hit its mark,
Striking the officer in the chest.
But the Department's budget didn't buy
Each officer a bullet-proof vest.
So he lay on the ground bleeding.
His blood wasn't blue - His blood was red.
And briefly he thought of his loved ones
'Cause in a moment the officer was dead.
In the news they told the story
Of how this officer had died.
And some who listened cared less,
But those who loved him cried.
Well, they buried him in uniform
With his badge pinned on his chest.
He even had his revolver,
He died doing his best.
Written By:
David L. Bell
Sergeant
Richland County Sheriff's Department
Columbia, South Carolina
Used with Special Permission of the Author
Copyright © 1999 - All Rights Reserved
and may not be duplicated without permission

Investigator David L Bell
Richland County Sheriff's Dept., Columbia, SC

September 20, 2007

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