Family, Friends & Fellow Officers Remember...

Deputy Koester, you will not be forgotten! R.I.P.

Deputy Sheriff
Livingston County (Il) Sheriff's Ofc.

February 9, 2010

So hard to believe it has been five years, at times it is like yesterday. We all miss you but we know that you are in a wonderful place. I come to this website everyday that I work even if just for a second to say good morning. I sure do miss having you around to argue and laugh with. I miss the entertainment. You'd be so proud of your kids. Amber's a hard worker and she is beautiful. You would love Ryan playing football at UHS. Jamie and Jordan both turning into wonderful young ladies. Life does go on and the kids do grow up but you and their mothers have done a wonderful job. Each time I see them, I see you and the influence you had and continue to have in their lives. God Bless you.

Jill Cook
Umatilla Police Department

February 9, 2010

Happy 5th Birthday in Heaven, honey. I went by the cemetery today and put out fresh mulch and added some more flowers. A bunch of red ones, how appropriate for Valentine’s day, right? It looks so beautiful out there. I sat there for a long while thinking about where life has taken all of us. Chapters closing and new ones beginning. Life is amazing when you pay attention. There were people getting ready for a new burial while I was there and I watched them for awhile. The honor guard was preparing for their part of the ceremony. Apparently a veteran had died and was being placed next to his wife. It got me thinking about the plans for the plots around you. The plans are in my will and will be put into effect at a, hopefully, much later date.
It’s so hard to believe that you’ve been gone this long. I always hear people say that it feels like yesterday. In reality, it really does. That raw emotion and heartsick feeling never really goes away. I had a nightmare the other night about the day you were taken from us. I guess when the anniversary comes up it always brings up so many emotions. Like we don’t have enough emotions over it already, they have to throw in the nightmares to boot. I remember that exact moment Chaplain Bob took my arms and told me you were gone. The look in his eyes forever haunts me, and probably will for the rest of my life. How he can do that over and over is beyond what I can comprehend. He is most definitely a special gift from God to us here and we love and cherish him.
As you know, I left the Sheriff’s Office to pursue my nursing degree. Yet one more dream I am going to accomplish. I talked to Jonell the other night and we both though I would be great as a nurse in the prison system. With my law enforcement background and an RN degree, the two would be a perfect fit. I still want to keep my law enforcement certificate, though. I want to go back into law enforcement when I’m done even if it’s only as a reserve. I miss it terribly and can’t imagine staying away from it for good. Right now, my focus is on school and the girls. Both keep me very busy. But I wouldn’t have it any other way. They are my heart and soul.
I haven’t talked to Amber or Ryan but I hear they are doing well. I’m sure you are keeping close tabs on both of them. The girls are doing great. Jamie will be graduating in three months. It’s hard to imagine she is almost 18 years old. She is starting college this fall and wants to become a Physical Therapist. I can tell you, she gives out some great massages, for sure. She is dating Gus, as you know, and he just joined the Navy. He’s at boot camp right now, so keep watch over him. Jamie writes to him like I use to write to you… every night. I laugh when she gets a letter in the mail from him because I remember like it was yesterday when I would run to the mail box to get your letters. I loved getting a letter from you everyday. I put them in a big notebook and there must be over a hundred in there. They are my keepsake.
Jordan is growing up way too fast. She gets up at 6 am to do her hair and sometimes make-up. I wonder if all kids do this when they start middle school. She started running a few days ago with some friends so she can get in shape for cheerleading tryouts this summer. No, she never lost that bug, either. If she gets anymore “in shape”, she’s not leaving the house!!!! She is a knock out, both of them. I was truly blessed with two of the most beautiful girls in the world.
Well baby, we love you and miss you so very much. As always, I pray you will watch over the children and keep them safe. Continue to be with your brothers and sisters on the streets. Their blue angel!

Your Loving Wife,
Ashley

February 9, 2010

Deputy Koester,
Its very evident by the reflections left by others that you were a great cop and have a wonderful family. I think I can speak for the entire Public Safety Community when I say we still mourn the loss of one of Florida's Finest.

Mrs. Koester,
My deepest and most sincere condolences. I hope you and your family have been able to find some sort of closure to the passing of an obviously great husband, father, friend and deputy. You will remain in my thoughts and prayers.

"Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called the sons of God" Matthew 5:9

Rest easy Deputy...

James Clendening
Glades County Sheriff's Office, FL

August 20, 2009

Hey bro. Thought of you today. I passed by your memorial sign on the way to a job and couldnt help but tear up. I wonder how Ashley deals with it, passing that sign everyday on her way to work. Its got to be tough. But she is one tough lady. I dont know to many people who could deal with all that she has and still have so such compassion for people and life. Well keep us in your prayers with the big guy and we'll see ya on the other side.

Anonymous

August 6, 2009

Happy Easter baby.... We love you and miss you so much!!!!

Your Loving Wife,
Ashley

April 12, 2009

Beyond the boundaries of your city's lights,
Stand the heroes waiting for your cries.
So many times you did not bring this on yourself,
When that moment finally comes,
I'll be there to help.

On that day when you need your brothers and sisters to care,
I'll be right here.
Citizen soldiers holding the light for the ones that we guide from the dark of despair.
Standing on guard for the ones that we sheltered,
We'll always be ready because we will always be there.

When there are people crying in the streets,
When they're starving for a meal to eat,
When they simply need a place to make their beds,
Right here underneath my wing,
You can rest your head.

On that day when you need your brothers and sisters to care,
I'll be right here!
Citizen soldiers holding the light for the ones that we guide from the dark of despair.
Standing on guard for the ones that we sheltered,
We'll always be ready because we will always be there...

There... there... there...

Hope and pray that you'll never need me,
But rest assured I will not let you down.
I'll walk beside you but you may not see me,
The strongest among you may not wear a crown.

On that day when you need your brothers and sisters to care,
I'll be right here!
On that day when you don't have the strength for the burden you bear,
I'll be right here!
Citizen soldiers holding the light for the ones that we guide from the dark of despair.
(Citizen soldiers)
Standing on guard for the ones that we sheltered,
We'll always be ready because we will always be there.

Anonymous

March 13, 2009

So you have a highway dedicated in honor of you and your selfless service and bravery. I was not able to be there due to some "pregnancy issues " yep .. this will be my last little one and I'm really excited. Russ made it back from Iraq safe and sound and I'm so thankful for that . The kids are great , every time we are visiting your grave every monthly visit to Lake County , Aadyn always asks " where is uncle wayne" and I explain he is in heaven .. somewhere more beautiful and peaceful than this world. It's been 4 years and not one day goes by I dont think of you . Your picture is still on my kitchen counter and will be there always as a constant reminder of you. Amber and Ryan have turned out so well , I always knew they would. They have a great mother and have never forgotten who and where they came from.I love you .

Brandy Koester Currie
niece

February 26, 2009

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

February 20, 2009

Bro,
Here I am at my last tour in the middle east. My 8th trip and hopefully my last. I hope that the Cool Ranch Dorito's and Diet Mt. Dew hasn't caused too many problems at lakeside. I know they were your favorite and i couldnt help but to stop by Key's market on those rare occasions when I would get a chance to visit and make sure that my little bro was taken care of. I know they were your almost favorite thing. I remember when all of this stuff happened and me and Jeff went out to where you were laid to rest and found two shells from your honor guard that they hadnt found. Your two bears should have those as promised. But there were other promises made that day as well. Promises that as yet have not been honored. Me Vic Paul and Jeff vowed that we would do whatever we had to do to erect an athletic center in your honor for all of the kids there in Lake county. The kids that you spent every spare moment trying to make sure that they didnt end up on the wrong track. Just after this happened to you, I had a cataclysmic event happen in my life and since have not fulfilled my obligation to the vow I took that day. I allowed things to get in the way of that dream and was not there for Vic, Jeff or Paul to help them. I will be back in Florida Dec of 2009 and if it is the will of God above, there will be a Wayne J. Koester Memorial Sports Park. Just like we planned.
Ginger, words cannot express the pride we all have in the job you have done in light of all of this. I know that you were not given the respect all of us believed you deserved during all of it but just know that you have a special place in heaven for what you have accomplished in light of it.
Amber, me and Miss shawn are your God parents. If you ever need anything at all you dont ever need to hesitate in calling on either of us. I remember going for walks with your mom and dad and I would have you on my shoulders when you were just a little bear. Graduation? Holy cow! My how the time flies! I know that your daddy is up in heaven smiling and just as proud as punch right now!
Ryan, I know the stock you come from so there is no doubt that you are destined for greatness. Your dad set an example that many have followed and as a result are very successful in life. You can hold your head high and be proud to carry his name.

So if, by chance you see a Harley roll up to Lakeside at the end of March, and a guy get off in full Dress blues with a can of soda and a bag of chips, dont be surprised. It's the least I can do for my brother.

AD1 (AW/SW/NAC) USN Gordon Richards
Brother

February 17, 2009

Hey baby,

Happy 4th Birthday in Heaven sweetheart! We love you and miss you so very much. As your anniversary passed, I looked back on the last four years and wondered where we found the strength to get through it all. At times it still feels like yesterday but yet so much has changed in the last four years. Someone asked me once how I was able to move forward. I said something to the effect of this.....The closing of old chapters in our lives have given us the stepping stones to open new ones. Each new chapter gives us more strength and courage to move forward. The chapters are never-ending and countless. That is one thing I have learned. Life does not stop and wait. Although scary at times, we must move forward with it. We can still hold on to all the beautiful memories we have of our loved ones because we take those memories with us on our newest journey. They are forever a part of us and in all that we do.

Today, I hope we provided you with a very special birthday in Heaven Gift. Our family and friends gathered together to honor you and to unveil your new road. As we dedicated part of SR 44 in your honor today, I felt such pride and honor. You are truly the definition of the word "Hero". Im am so proud to be your wife and so thankful to God that he brought you in to our lives. You have touched so many lives, baby. We hope and pray that everyone who passes through your part of Lake County will always remember what you sacrificed for them. We also gave special thank you's to very special people. We called them onto the stage with plagues and flowers and told them what they meant to us already but I'd like to say a few words to them as well....

Tom, Bill, Lee and Jeff.... You were with Wayne to the very end but yet through everything that was going on, you still risked your life protect him. There just aren't enough words that I can say to ever thank you enough. I know in my heart that he is so proud to call you his brothers.

Andrea....You are a remarkable woman. You told me once that you admired my strength and how strong a woman I was through all of this. It is you that I admire. I remember very clearly your voice on the tape during the shooting. While our worst nightmare was unfolding, you kept yourself calm and did what needed to be done to get them the help they needed. I'm so proud of you and everything you have accomplished.

Chaplin Bob....I love you dearly. You and me have had some pretty crazy times. Cigarettes and car crashes is all I'm going to say. We can let the world wonder what that means. Thank you for everything you have done to make our family's grief a little easier. You are truly a remarkable man and everything you do is heartfelt. God couldnt have chosen a better angel to walk this earth than you.

Linda... Thank you for everything you have done for us. I feel very blessed that you were chosen to help us with everything that week. It wasnt just a job for you, it was truly heartfult in everything you did for us and it showed. Love you lady!!

I love you and miss you everyday.

Your Loving Wife,
Ashley

February 10, 2009

To Wayne, his wife Ashley and all his children and all other family members who call him beloved:

On this, the fourth anniversary day of your tragic death, I wanted to honor your memory and your sacrifice. Rest in Peace, Wayne. From all the loving reflections, I can see that you are so loved and so missed. I know that you are still with those you loved, in their hearts and souls, their laughs and their tears, their joys and their sorrows. May your memory continue to inspire and your spirit continue to soar.

Ashley, you are also an inspiration. Thanks for sharing youf beautiful love story with us. I also wrote this message to your friend Denise and I think it's great that you two have formed this friendship ...although you are many miles apart, you have formed this bond because you are on the same journey. You both soldier on with valor and courage as does my daughter-in-law Jo Ann.

Phyllis Loya, mother of Larry Lasater, Pittsburg PD, eow
4/24/05

Phyllis Loya
mother o fallen officer Larry Lasater,eow 4/24/05

February 10, 2009

Hey brother,
Just thinking of you all day today. Today was a good day for everyone remembering the sacrifice you gave and all your brothers and sisters getting together. Our family was there and it was good to see everyone together. All of us were there and thanking God for bringing you into our lives. It was good to remember and see everyone again. The highway sign looked pretty cool. We love ya and miss you.

Victor Koester
brother

February 9, 2009

Just wanted to stop by and let you and your family know that we have not forgotten you and the sacrifice you made this day four years ago, or the sacrifice your family will have to make from that day forward. They miss you every minute of everyday, just let them know you are close. As a mother who lost a son in the L.O.D. we get all the signs and cherish each one.
I've never like using anniversary of my sons death, so I use that it's his birthday in Heaven, if you don't mind Happy 4th Birthday in Heaven Deputy Koester we will never forget...

Connie Barker F.W.B. Fl
Mother of Clint Walker Prattville P.D. E.O.W. 1-14-04

February 9, 2009

Ashley,
Once again we share this anniversary. Just know that I have you and your kids in my prayers today. Take Care.

Denise Scarbrough

February 9, 2009

Hey Wayne,
Well, February 9th is here again. Seems like only yesterday...
You will be honored again today, as with everyday. There will be a dedication ceremony in your name. Part of a heavily traveled highway will be named after you. Now, when people pass along that stretch of highway, your name and sacrifice will be forever immortalized. When strangers see the name of Deputy Wayne J. Koester, they will wonder who that brave hero is. We know...and we remember.
God bless you, Wayne, for your bravery and sacrifice. We will always be thankful for who you are and for what you mean to your family and your law enforcement family.
Today, as with everyday, you are missed.
Please continue to watch over and protect your family and your brothers and sisters who walk that beat.

LEO Wife and Mom

February 9, 2009

Daddy,

February 9th is right around the corner, one more week to go. Thats the day when everything seems to fall apart, like its all happening over again. Mom and i were talking about graduation and how we wish you could be there. You would be so proud of Ry, he's so big and he made the weightlifting team. He's the spitting image of you, so in a way i get to see your smile everyday. I cant say im happy about Wheelers appeal because after all i wanted him to see the life sentence, not the death. i mean i already lost my dad, why should we take his kids father from them?
You know... there isnt a second when it doesnt feel like it was yesterday. I know your always with me and you'll always be in my heart.

Please keep a watchful eye over our entire family.

I love you.

Amber
Daughter

February 2, 2009

Hey Wayne!
We were so glad to hear the news about Wheeler's lost appeal. We know that, in time, justice will be served. February 9th is right around the corner and on that day, as with every day, we will honor you and keep you in our hearts. Your family will always be in our thoughts and prayers.
Keep a faithful watch on your families as you walk the beat on heaven's streets!

LEO Mom and Wife

January 31, 2009

Another part of the story closed today as Wheeler was denied his appeal. The family was so greatful to be one step closer to justice.
vic and I sat outside tonight talking about your tatoo and how he is going to get one like you had. I think it's great, and I know you would be laughing that he hasent done it yet!!
On Feburary 9th, your 4 year EOW anniversary we will be honoring you once again as the county is renaming 44 twords Deland the Wayne Joeseph Koester Memorial H-way. What an honor! It still amazes me how the people in this community still remember what you sacrificed for the people you loved so much. i hope that when it is my time to come home people can carry my goodness and memories on for the future.
You are still loved so much and talked about everyday with our family. we all miss you greatly and it feels like it was just yesterday you were here to play rail baron, or go to the springs for a cook out.
time goes on, and they say wounds heal, but you will never be out of our hearts. I love you

Jonell Koester
sister-in-law

January 29, 2009

Hey Wayne,
Just found out Wheelerlost this appeal in the State supreme court. Can't wait till it's over.
we all miss you and think about you daily.I work about 20 minutes away from where Wheeler is held in prison in Raiford. I would love to go see him and take care of business but thats not our way. Time will end this. Miss you and love you. Miss our bloody rough housing. Send me some thoughtson my tattoo in your memory. Thinking of a bad boy police with a no fear script. It'll be something we both would think would be awesome. Just talked to Ashley a few minutes ago and were very proud of her and her accommplishments. I'll write back soon, watch over Jonell in her nursing school. She's doing great and proud of her also. Watch over us with mom and grandpa.
Love ya,
Your Big Brother.

Vic Koester
Brother

January 29, 2009

Wayne,

I can't believe how long it's been. I really wish I would have had the opportunity to work with you on the road, and even still it saddens me that I can't. I think about you often, while working and other times. You were one of the few outstanding Deputies at that Sheriff's office, and i'll go one more and say in the county over all agencies. Some of the young ones and older ones on the road should humble themselves a bit and remember why work where we do, remember why we are law enforcement officers or deputies. You were one of those, and in my heart still are. Watch over us all. Love you always.

leo at heart

December 10, 2008

Hello my love,

Your birthday has just passed and it was another tough day. We miss you so very much. Jamie and I went to the cemetary and left you flowers and a birthday balloon. We shared our time with you and then we went over to Todd and Lu's and spent the day. We celebrated your birthday as well as Lu's and Steph's. It was really nice. I really have wonderful friends. They are so thoughtful and one of a kind.

Work is going well. I've been sick for the last 3 weeks with pneumonia. I didnt have much sick time since my two surgeries, so I worked all but one day. Thankfully, Im just about over it. I guess I gave it to my Sgt because she is now sick. I felt so bad I went to the pharmacy and bought her a "sick basket" full of bags cough drops, tissues, soups, medication etc. When she left her office and went in and put it on her desk with no note attached. She knew it was from me but I wouldnt admit to it when she asked, lol. I guess she will know for sure if she reads your reflections, hehehe.

The girls are doing well. Jamie's still doing her art thing, but now has added painting as well. When anyone looks at her drawings, it leaves then speechless. She did a drawing ( logo ) for a friend of mines company and he's going through the process now of getting the logo trademarked. He's putting them on shirts, hats, sticker and you name it. In return, he's going to make sure she's well taken care of, thats for sure. Im so proud of her. She is a talented and amazing young woman. She is also thinking about going into the medical field. With her bedside manner and generous heart, she will do well in anything she wants.

Jordan, our little babygirl, is growing up so fast. She just had her 11th brithday and we had her party here at the house. I must have been temporarily out of my mind but we ended up with 21 kids not to mention the adults, WOW. I went and rented one of those blow up things from grand rental station. It was pretty cool. Kinda of like a huge obstacle course. They had a blast and pretty much wore themselves out. Jordan is doing well in school, except her math> Please help her with that!!! She is still into animals. She has watched every animal planet made and is still set on being a Veterinarian. She has a gift unlike anything I have ever scene. Reads every animal book she can get her hands on and can tell you facts about anything you ask her.

We still havent set a date for your Road Sign unveiling. Jonell and I have talked about it but with both our schedules, we really have had time to sit down and finalize anything yet. We're trying to get the Eustis Community Center. Its big enough to sit quite a few people. I have to make up the invitations so we can send them to all the big wigs. So much to do but it will be worth it. I dont want anyone to ever forget what you sacrificed for this community.

We have alot of things to plan for that are coming up pretty quick. Christmas is a few weeks away and I know it will be another tough day. We're going on a cruise in March of next year and that should be nice and relaxing, I hope. Jonell is graduating Nursing school in May and thats another cruise as well.

I have gone through alot of things out in the garage as well as your special stuff that was in the spare room. I put aside boxes of items for Vic, Amber and Ryan. I know its past time. I've tried and tried to start it before but I would only end up hysterical and run out of the room shutting the door. I dont know how anyone can be calm and collected while going through the only thing you have left of your loved one. It was one of the hardest things I've ever done. I use to think that when you gave away someone's things that it meant you were ready to let them go. Now I know that I was nuts to ever think that. I could never let you go. You are the love of my life, my heart and soul> Those are just material items. The best part of you is still in my heart and I will always have that with me, forever.

Well, I've teared up enough for one night. I love you so very much baby. Please keep a gentle hand on our families, especially all the children. They are all growing up so fast. Help fill their hearts with passion and determination to achieve their goals... compassion and kindness to everyone they met....courage and strength to stand up for what is right.... and all the love they can have for their family and friends. Watch over our brothers and sisters, they already have that courage and strength, but they still need their angel to help keep them safe and bring them home to their own families.

Missing you baby,
Ashley

December 2, 2008

Hi daddy :)

I miss you. Everythings going okay for me i guess, at least for now right? I'm working a lot lately, six to seven days a week at Tijuana Flats, gotta do what you gotta do huh. and Cayson is getting so big, its weird to have another little brother haha, mom's crazy i know! He's a little miracle though, i have two brothers now :)
So guess what?! I found out when i graduate and it's two days before my eighteenth birthday, i know you would be so proud daddy. I am putting in my application in to UCF and two other schools, but I think i'm going to Lake Sumter the first year then i'm transfering to a four year college.
Ryan's getting big too, it's his freshman year at Umatilla. He played football and on their first game, he made the winning touchdown... Me, Mommy, Aunt Pam and all of us jumped up and screamed! haha
Thanksgiving just passed and as usual it was hard without you but I kept my head up and was thankful for the time I did have with you, thats what matters right?
Well I have to go. Please watch over me and our family.

I love you.

Amber Koester

December 1, 2008

Happy Thanksgiving my baby!!! I love and miss you so very much. You sure have been on my mind all day today. So much so that when I pulled the turkey out of the oven, I started to call out your name to come and carve it, just like I use to. Its like you were there with me. Waiting for me to call you into the kitchen to do your part. February will be your 4th birthday in heaven and still there are times when I can still feel you here with me. Lending me your strength when I need it the most. You are absolutely amazing!

Well, today went as it usually does during one of our gatherings. I'm in the kitchen cooking. The elders were sitting around the tables drinking coffee and talking about who knows what. The kids running in and out of the house laughing and driving everyone nuts, especially the cats. I do have to day that this is actually the first year the I didnt get a battle wound from the kitchen. Suprised? I know I was. Not a single burn or cut... shocking to say the least. I love you baby and miss you so very very much. The girls send you big hugs and kisses. Watch over everyone and keep them safe.

Your loving Wife,
Ashley

November 27, 2008

Wayne,
Today is Veteran's Day and you are one of the brave military officers who should be honored and remembered. We will say a prayer for your family on this day and we thank you for your service and your sacrifice. The military and law enforcement families lost a true soldier; however, we were truly blessed to have a soldier such as you. Continue to walk in God's army.
In His name,
LEO Wife and Mom

LEO Wife and Mom

November 11, 2008