Family, Friends & Fellow Officers Remember...

Sgt. Sullivan,
On today, the 25th anniversary of your death I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice for the citizens of the state of Nevada. And to your Family and loved ones, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy.

R.I.P.
USBP

Anonymous
United States Border Patrol

January 13, 2023

George and family
It is hard to believe that it has been 23 years. I'll never forget that day. I had just arrived at the national academy (Quantico). I couldn't believe the news. You and I had a lot of college classes together and sometimes met on night shift when I was in patrol with the S.O. I often tried to recruit you for the S.O. but you would laugh--since you loved working for the university. Anyway, I always appreciated your kindness and friendship through the years and those who knew you will never forget. Most of us have moved on to other things but time does not diminish our memory of you. You'd be proud of your family. They are all great people.

Jim Lopey, Asst. Sheriff (ret)
Washoe County Sheriff (Reno, Nv) & NVDPS

January 13, 2021

I told your story again today. It doesn't get any easier. The day you were murdered was the day I decided to retire at the earliest possible date. We went to Reno High School together. I was one of the first on scene and stayed with you for the hours that followed. I'm so sorry this happened to you and your family. I can't type this without crying. I figured it was about time to post something here. Thanks to everyone who remembers.

Police Sergeant, Retired
Reno P.D.

November 12, 2020

Sgt. Sullivan,
On today, the 22nd anniversary of your death I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice for the citizens of of the state of Nevada. And to your Family and loved ones, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy.

R.I.P.
USBP

Anonymous
United States Border Patrol

January 13, 2020

Hi George. Like everyone, I can’t believe it’s been 20 years since we lost you. I have thought of you often during my career. I returned back to Nevada after retiring Last December. A few days ago, I went to the campus to visit your memorial. I’ve wanted to do that for a long time.

As I have said before, I thank God for the opportunity He gave to me in knowing you, being your friend, and cherish the memories buddy.

Chief Ranger Brian M. Martin, Retired
United States Department of the Interior

April 19, 2018

George I was just thinking of you and how much of an influence you had on me. I thought about some cases we worked and meals we shared. I miss our telephone conversations. I miss knowing you were out there. I’m heartbroken for your family. I miss you old friend. You are so missed brother. We will catch up one of these days.

Burcina
PPD/ UNR

April 19, 2018

Hey Sully!
I cannot believe it has been 20 years. I went to campus this January for a service honoring you, and Alan told me about this site. I remain in contact with a few people at UNR PD, since I volunteer to help at the annual golf tournament Todd and Debbie put together in your honor. There, I have been blessed to meet your family also. Carolyn and the kids - and GRANDkids -
are wonderful, and I am so happy I have that opportunity to know them, help, and talk.
As with ALL who knew you - even those who didn't - that day changed our campus and our city.
Working in the Cashier's office on campus, we got to know all of the LEO's on campus because this was way before armored car pick-up. (I started in 1980). An officer would drive us to the bank with our daily deposit. So, yes, there were times that you worked DAYS! That morning when a friend called and woke me up, and told me to turn on my tv....... they showed your picture and my heart stopped. A blur of "campus closed", "suspect not in custody", " gun and keys missing", "should we open campus tomorrow?", trying to work, in fear of "where is that POS and the gun and keys! Keys that open our office!". Then the tears. Co-workers, including officers. Vigilante spirit through campus and citywide. Disbelief. I went to your service at Lawlor Events Center. It was standing room only. One of the things that I witnessed that day that stuck with me - there were many - I told my friend "you know, it is rough to see a man cry, but, a man in uniform crying will rip your heart out". So many uniforms in that building. Bagpipes will never be the same to me. That day changed me in a very deep way. As it did to so many others. It is part of who I am now.
Now for a fun memory - I remember the times that Andy and I would be working late ( during registrations), and it would be dark during the winter semesters. We faced away from the outside windows. You and Alan would drive your patrol car up to our bldg/office windows, and use your darn PA radio and scare the CRAP out of us! OR , you would flash your lights, or use your beacon. FUN stuff!!! I apologize in advance to anyone this might offend, but, I do remember getting to a point where I would not turn around - I would just flip you off!! (I can hear you laughing right now!!!)
One of us would eventually go open the window, and hear you two laughing. Then we would trade barbs or just say Hi, then back to work. Yes, I have very fond memories of you, and Alan, and your smiles and laughter. That is why I can smile when I remember you! Which is often. Too often these days with the news - why this website is here. Grateful it is though.
So, Sully - It hurts us all that you were taken WAY too soon. I still avoid that part of campus. The memories, bad and good will never leave me. But, Thank you for the laughs. Thank you for being the great person that you were. Thank you for being a great LEO. You are missed and remembered, and always will be. Just like your smile, and the devilish sparkle in your eyes!

Kim Thomson
civilian/co-worker

March 17, 2018

George,

It is hard to believe that 20 years have passed. Every time I drive by UNR I think of you.
I remember your mischievous smile and the twinkle in your eye and your zest for life.

Awhile back your daughter was my son's speech therapist. I had to hold back tears when I met her the first time. She reminded me so much of you - her smile, her kindness and her joy. Thank you and Carolyn for such wonderful children.

An old friend

March 12, 2018

20 years have passed. I’m greatful that I shared a small part of your life here on earth. I read all the posts that have been left. They help us all with your passing. Most of all your wife’s post you would be so proud of her. My the lord always bless her and your family. You touched our hearts.

107

January 19, 2018

George, I think of you all the time. I still remember the horrid sense of loss that morning when my wife and I both got called into work because of your death. One of the worst days of my life, and nothing will ever erase that day from my mind. I know how much you disliked working graveyard shift, even though I really liked it. I remember being excited when you came to graveyard, because I really enjoyed our meetings up behind Lawlor. Our talks were fun, and I loved hearing about all the things happening with your wife and kids. In fact, as I recall we never talked about anything other than our families. Probably why I enjoyed visiting with you so much.

This week, I attended the C.O.P.S. Evening In Blue. Carolyn was there, and I got to say hello and give her a quick hug. I see her all the time at church, and I know how busy she is these days. She worked SO hard to help make this Evening In Blue a success, and she brought a whole bunch of photos of you that we all got to see on the big screen. Buddy, I sat there at my table and cried. I still miss you, even after all these years.

After your passing, I noticed a permanent sadness in myself that just didn't go away. I loved my job, but it wasn't as fun anymore. I had to work the south side of town, because I couldn't stand to be anywhere near the University. I still avoid driving in that area unless I have to. I finally got transferred to Detectives and finished my career there, retiring early in 2002.

I'm sorry it took me so long to post here. I've known about this site for many years, but I just couldn't bring myself to sit and write. The Evening In Blue event changed that, and brought me a little peace about your death. It still hurts, always will, but hearing the words spoken by Sheriff David Clark at the event gave me a sense of purpose again. Sheriff Clark very eloquently explained why he does what he does reference police homicides, and it gave me hope that something can and will be done to help reduce future police murders.

I hope your time with Jesus has been amazing. I know some day soon I'll be there too, and I can't wait to see you again!! I can't wait to hear all the cool things your kids have been doing while you've watched over them. I've also just become a grandfather for the first time, hopefully I'll have some stories to share with you too.

Det. Sgt. Loren Ross (Ret.)
Reno NV PD

November 16, 2016

Many thanks for your service in our police department. My prayers be with your family. I hope that they can heal from this terrible tragedy.

John Haseltine - Civilian

March 26, 2016

Being a family friend to George, Carolyn and their children, I continue to feel a true sense of loss. He was a great husband, father and friend. A great family lost a very special man for no understandable reason. You are an amazing strong family!

Michelle Phillips

January 14, 2016

And now it's 18 years. Being nosy, I tend to read a lot of posts by other people. Those of us who visit regularly have essentially watched your family and friends grow and still grieve. No, I guess time DOESN'T heal all wounds. For some, they take a deep breath and the pain is lessened, but for some, that dull ache never really goes away and even flares up now and then.

My heart goes out to all who lost you and all are in my prayers. God Bless them and God Bless you, Brother.

Ptl. Jim Leahy, Jr.
Harvard University Police Dept.

January 13, 2016

And so here I am again remembering how much I miss you. Our first grandchild is now 3 months old and you would have loved holding him close. But I will do it in your honor. Your cherished son, now also a police officer, will marry the love of his life this summer. I will stand in your place, though your shoes can never be filled. I carry on your love of woodworking, just a little, and smile when I remember that it was you who taught me. I will miss you as long as I'm this side of heaven. Looking forward to a reunion some day....

Your loving wife

January 8, 2016

As a UNR graduate and now a cop myself, I think of you often and how truly dangerous this profession is, regardless of what beat you work. Be thou at peace.

SGT. R. Moberly
Mammoth Lakes PD

April 25, 2015

There isn't a year that goes by that I don't remember this terrible event. I never knew George, but this day is burned in my memory. I can't imagine how it threw his family into a different path other than planned. Hope all is well with you. His life is remembered.

Anonymous

January 14, 2015

Today, 17 years ago you were taken from us. I will never forget that day sarge. Remember saying goodnight to you while leaving swing shift the night before and never seeing you again. Going back in at 0300 and having to notify our other officers. Miss hearing the "Sullivan Sunday's" because you'd call in sick so you could spend that extra time with your cherished family. They were everything to you and you were to them. You're not forgotten and greatly missed.

police officer (ret)
University of Nevada, Reno Police Dept.

January 13, 2015

Miss you old friend. We all miss you. God Bless you

Retired Cop Burcina
PPD/UNR Friend

October 29, 2014

Hey George. I miss you brother.

Sean
VSP

August 20, 2014

Hey buddy...Just dropping in, George, we all miss you and think of you every day. Every Sunday, I say a prayer.

Sean
VSP

March 25, 2014

Thinking of you today pal. We all are. We know this day and honestly Im so pissed off. Heartbroken. You, your family, your friends- we were all ripped off. I would walk backwards naked in a snow storm to be standing outside that prison when that punk gets his injection. Miss you Sarge

Burcina
retired cop

January 13, 2014

Hey buddy. I think of you often. I pray for you and your family every Sunday in mass, I never miss an opportunity to say HI and to say I love you. I think of the times we spent, the stories my dad tells, the advice you gave me. My parents are doing fine...Dad still talks about you quite a bit. My kids are 11 and 8, soon to be 19 and 30. I tell them about you and your family. I sure do miss you. I know I will see you one day soon. Thanks for everything.

Sean
VSP

June 5, 2013

IT IS TOUGH TO IMAGINE 15 YEARS HAVE PASSED. SEEMS LIKE ONLY YESTERDAY. YOU MUST BE QUITE PROUD OF YOUR FAMILY AS YOU LOOK DOWN UPON THEM.

I have laid down my life in service to all of you.
I have been a part of the fabric that has held the line between your safety and your victimization. I have given my life so that others may live in peace. I have lived my life as a dedicated member of the greatest profession. There is no greater honor.

As I now become a part of the rich history of law enforcement, please remember me always for I have left behind those who loved and depended upon me.
My partners and my agency, please remember my family, their loss, and don’t let time soften your compassion for them.

You guard the gate now and I will continue my watch from above.

MAY YOU REST IN PEACE AND MAY YOUR FAMILY FIND COMFORT IN THE GOOD YOU HAVE DONE HERE ON EARTH.

Doug Gist, Captain (ret) Washoe S.O.
Silver State National Peace Officers Museum

January 13, 2013

This morning I awoke to start a new day
Last night while I slept you were taken away
A note had been left by the bedside to read
"Didn't you know this poor fellow", I did indeed

It was not a great battle that had taken your light
Standing guard at your post all alone in the night
An assassin upon you so suddenly had sprung
Not a word could be uttered, nor alarm bell rung

A citizen filled with hatred and evil so low
Had taken your life with his cowardy blow
This man was captured some distance away
To prison they took him with his life he will pay

Tonight all alone with those we love most
Another will come to take up your post
The loss of his comrade still fresh in his mind
If he lets down his guard it is he they might find

His convictions are steel, his devotion a fire
Through the long lonely night his eyes will not tire
The pay is not worth this mission he'll take
But he could pay with his life for a single mistake

After suffering your loss I can't understand
How these brave men can still reach out their hand

Time goes by quickly, as so many things do
I wish dear friend I could have been there for you
I'd give you a gift as you've for me
Or make you a light that all men could see

Your name be remembered through all the land
As the man that served any that needed his hand

107

January 9, 2013

Our little girl is getting married, George. You won't be here to walk her down the aisle, but I'll do it in your honor. You won't be here to have a father-daugher dance with her, but I will be honored to stand in for you. You will smile on her as she prepares for this big day, and you would love her man. He is quite like you....slow to speak, thoughtful, kind, generous. He has a heart of gold, just like you. I miss you so much....more every day. Whoever says that time heals all wounds is wrong....instead, God uses all things to His glory. I have been able to share with others who have lost, only because I understand. It doesn't make it any easier, it just makes sense that our pain is useful to our Lord and Savior. So as we make plans for our daughter's wedding, smile with the angels and remember how much we love you. All my love forever,

Your loving wife

September 30, 2012