Family, Friends & Fellow Officers Remember...

Officer Barber,

I had the honor of meeting your parents at the memorial service in Spokane. They are such wonderful people and they love you so much. They have blessed me by giving me a pin with your badge number on it. I will wear it often and think of you and the courage you had every time I am out on the streets.

God bless you!

May 9, 2007

Hey Lito,

Recently read that you will be receiving the state's Medal of Honor Award. Really wish that you were here to receive it in person. Everyone that knows you I'm sure are proud of you. I hope heaven is all you expected it to be, and I hope they all know up there how fortunate they are to have you.

take care!!

C

C
Friend

May 3, 2007

Lito, we miss you so much!! It is still hard to accept that you are no longer here with us. All your life we have provided for you in the best way we can and we were thankful that you didn’t disappoint us. For the short time that you were here on earth you’d lived a fruitful and worthwhile life and you made us very proud.

Raising you single-handedly when you were a baby was an enormous task for your dad. The support provided by your late grandma Bev, you late grandpa Ron, your aunts and uncles made it easier for your dad to care for you during those times. I was lucky to have become part of your life early on and fulfilled the role of a mother for you. Your dad and I worked hard to make sure you were raised properly and provided you with the best we can ever give you. We loved you so dearly and you became an ideal son for us.

Now that you’re gone, it is painful to accept the reality that you won’t be here anymore. We will never have the opportunity to watch you walk the aisle and have our own grandchild from you to spoil. You won’t be there to see your brother and sister reach their goals like you have and to help us out us when we grow old and gray. We think of you everyday, and whenever we talk about you always brings tears to our eyes. We love you so much, son, I don’t think we’ll ever get over the pain of losing you but we will go on knowing that in our hearts you will always be there. We are so lucky to have all those wonderful years with you and so thankful for all the beautiful memories you left behind. We will treasure them for the rest of our life.

We are so proud of the man you have become, the legacy you left, and the love and respect you have shown us. We love you so much son, if we could, we would gladly trade places with you during that fateful day, just so you could have more time in this world. You had quite a bright future waiting for you and it is painful to realize how much fate deprived you of it.

To the Seattle Police Department, THANK YOU for the support and the honor you bestowed on our son. We know how much it meant to him to be a part of your organization. He could have continued to be an excellent asset and a positive image of your organization. We appreciated all the assistance you provided us during the most difficult time for our family.

To all the Law Enforcement Officers, we salute your hard work and sacrifices. All of you are HEROES in our heart.

Your Loving Parents

May 2, 2007

hi kuya lito. it almost has been 7 months..just wanted to let you know that you're still in our hearts.i miss u but i know you're doing fine with grandpa in heaven. we love you.

your little cousin<3

February 21, 2007

Just checking in Barber... Amber just brought in beautiful pins with the SPD logo and your badge number. I wear mine everyday. EVERYONE wears them in your honor. We miss you everyday. We will never forget.

Officer Jones
Seattle Police Department

January 16, 2007

--"If you find it in your heart to care for somebody else, you will have succeeded." -- Maya Angelou

Aloha Police Officer Joselito Barber,
Thank you for your service and dedication to your community and your country. You and all officers that continue to lay your lives on the line and pay the ultimate sacrifice to keep our communities and country safe, will NEVER be forgotten.

I personally pledge, (after one of Hawaii's own, Honolulu Police Officer Steve Favela, lost his life in the line of duty protecting our Commander in Chief, President George W. Bush), to become a continuum of the ODMP light. That light is in the form of an ODMP tribute. People from all walks of life, regardless of age, race, religion, profession, education, and geographical location can share here. That "LIGHT" comes from within the heart and soul of every person who cares to share a word or two on behalf of each and every fallen officer. Every fallen officer is an hero. The ODMP; Officer Down Memorial Page gives us a place to come together and share our feelings as one family. May we find comfort as we give comfort to the families who have lost a loved one.

As we say in Hawaii, “We are`Ohana.” We are family. God Bless this fallen hero. May we embrace him as one of our own family member; our `Ohana. No one will ever be able to replace you for you were unique and very special. No one; not in this lifetime. May God allow you to rest in His Divine peace.

Police Officer Joselito Barber, I wish you, your loved ones, your fellow officers, and friends, peace and love beyond all understanding.
--- May this Hawaiian prayer give all those who read it comfort. ---

THE PEACE OF " I "
KA MALUHIA O KA "I"

Peace be with you, All My Peace,
O ka Maluhia no me oe, Ku'u Maluhia a pau loa,

The Peace that is " I ", the Peace that is "I am".
Ka Maluhia o ka "I", owau no ka Maluhia,

The Peace for always, now and forever and evermore.
Ka Maluhia no na wa a pau, no ke'ia wa a mau a mau loa aku.

My Peace " I " give to you, My Peace " I " leave with you,
Ha'awi aku wau I ku'u Maluhia ia oe, waiho aku wau I ku'u Maluhia me oe,

Not the world's Peace, but, only My Peace,
The Peace of " I ".

A'ole ka Maluhia o ke ao aka, ka'u Maluhia wale no,
Ka Maluhia o ka "I".

Moana V.C. Molale (Private Citizen)
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Hawaii

January 11, 2007

Lito,
We miss you, may you and your family find peace during this holiday season.

friend
friend

December 21, 2006

Hey Lito,
I've put off writing on this til now. Today we remembered Ofc. Nowak at the East Pct. It's been a tough few months since I've been with SPD and I think about you regularly. I finished FTO on Oct 17 and treated all of Union sector (& Mahar w/ his Guiness and Bushnells) to drinks just like you did. I got assigned to East 2nd, working G2, just like you too. They asked me if I wanted to switch to G3, but I think I'll stay. Anyway, saw your cousin Ryan at the Memorial today and found out that we get our haircut at the same place. Small small world :) Take it easy up there bro and feel free to leave me with any G2 tips :)
~JC

Ofc. J.Chin
SPD

November 16, 2006

Officer Lito Barber
3 months ago today you left us. And everyday I am reminded of you. Every time I get behind the wheel....I think will you keep me safe? If it's something I eat I think....did you like this too? If it's something I listen to, I think....did you listen to it too?
If you are looking over me I think....how can I hear you? Do you ever try to tell me something?

Your loved ones are in my thoughts all the time. If I see one of them we reminisce about good times. I ran into someone that knew you. I was introduced to him he said, "Hey Lito....I mean...Oh man...I'm sorry..." I said, "don't be sorry just keep remembering."
This weekend I know I raised a glass with you and every toast I share with friends always includes you too. I will always keep you near my heart and believe me when I say ....YOUR MEMORY WILL NEVER BE FORGOTTEN.


You inspire me.
God bless you,
your (our) friends and your (our) family.

friend

November 13, 2006

Hey Lito,

It's been almost 3 months, and I wanted you to know we haven't forgotten you or your sacrifice. I think of you everytime I see a woman or man in uniform. Thank you again for blessing you with your pressence. We will meet again, one day. Til then, continue to watch over your loved ones.

-C-

C
friend

November 10, 2006

This will be my last message to you Joselito. I have sent others but they didn't show my name.

I can't even imagine the pride your family must feel knowing how many hearts you have touched.

I didn't even know you, but you TRULY are an Angel of God

Debi Kydland
Lacey, Washington

Debi Kydland

October 8, 2006

Thanks for your survise.
Rest in Peace.

Katie Rock

October 6, 2006

To the Barber Family,

My sincere condolences on the passing of your son Joselito. As a fellow Police Officer and fellow O'Dea Alumni, I share the loss of brother in blue. I am sure he served his community well, as a proud member of the Seattle Police Department.

Joselito will be in our family's thoughts and prayers.

Sincerely,

Paul Arguelles, Sergeant
Los Altos Police Department
1 North San Antonio Road
Los Altos, California 94022
O'Dea HS Class of 1981

Sergeant Paul Arguelles
Los Altos PD, California

October 2, 2006

I never knew you, I think of you often. I think about putting messages here, but don't want to seem foolish.

I go on line and read occasionally what others have written.

Hopefully, it is helpful to your loved ones to know how many hearts you have touched.

Debi Kydland
Lacey, Washington

September 29, 2006

Officer Barber;

Although I didn't know you, I made the trip from Canada to attend your memorial service. I arrived in Seattle on Sunday night and stopped at 23rd and Yesler just before midnight. A large contingent of your family was there. After some quiet reflection I spoke to the officer who was guarding your memorial. He said to me, "I look at him and see myself five years ago." I stopped and thought for a minute, and I said to the officer, "I took at him, and see myself IN five years." I hope in five years, I can be just like you.

I look at the picture of you in your uniform, during your graduation. You are clutching your graduation certificate and you have the biggest grin on your face. It is so very obvious the amount of pride and happiness you had in yourself, on that day. It is something I can only dream of right now, the day I get to wear the uniform and have the badge pinned. Something tells me it was something you dreamed of as well.

I believe you touched lives while you were with us. You continue to touch lives with your passing, as you have touched mine. You are a huge inspiration to me now, and will be indefinitely. Your memorial service booklet is displayed on my desk and I see it every day when I wake up. It's a daily reminder of your legacy and your sacrifice. It's a reminder to me to live everyday to the fullest, with honor and higher ideals. I continue to pray for you and your family each night. You will never be forgotten.

D.M.

September 24, 2006

Dear Mitz and Ernie,

There are no words to assuage you of the grief so overwhelming on the loss of your son Lito who lost his life while doing his duty. Just to let you know that we are touched and blest by the outpouring and display from all sectors of life - the people, the media, government, faith community and also from Seattle's finest and from "those who serve". I can't control my emotion on the editorial written about him. I followed the web and saw all the pictures of those who cared about his ideals.
The Friday service was uplifting. So was the rosary at St. Paul. You were so graceful at St. James when you spoke about him. The service at Hec Ed was awesome and unprecedented. I would like to let you know that the motorcade to the gravesite is wonderful to behold - it was done with reverence and heart rending, indeed to see fire trucks, vehicles, motorcycles or even by standers on bridges and on ramps showing their sympathy to their hero and fallen comrade. Our thanks to both of you for nurturing Lito. From both of you - you have given him all the right stuff. His passing is not in vain. I have learned so much from what I have seen and heard. His memory lingers on and will serve as an inspiration to others. Hang in there. We know it is hard for you. We pray that our Lord will hold you in His Hands. Up there Lito will be your greatest intercessor and will be watching over you. Life must go on. Remember, God truly loves you and all shall be well. Blessed are those who mourn for they shall be comforted! Bear in time that our loving God will never test us beyond our endurance.

Take care.

Eddie and Ellen

Eddie and Ellen M Abellera
Family Friend and FAACPA

September 21, 2006

It has been over one month that your tour of duty ended and I want to thankyou for your service to law enforcement. I only wish you could have pursued your life long dream a little longer. Some people will say, "I wonder what kind of police officer he would have been," that is a mute question because you were already that officer. You didn't become a police officer to be a rich person, it came from your heart and thats what makes a good cop. Your family will always remember you as will the Blue Family. You are a true hero and will never be forgotten. I know the pain your parents feel in their hearts as we are not suppose to outlive our children and I know they would trade places with you in a heartbeat so that you could be back here with your loved ones pursuing your career. There are no magic words of comfort I can offer them except to take one day at a time and keep your memory alive by talking about you to anyone who will listen and also seek out your friends to tell them stories about you that they may not know. Your Mom carried you in her arms when you were a baby, now she carries you in her heart. Keep watch over your loved ones and wrap your wings around them and help them with their grief. Also, keep watch over those still out on patrol protecting that Thin Blue Line. I was end this poem sent to me by someone and would like to share it for your loved ones:

Poem by Richard Fife:

No person is ever truly alone.
Those who live no more,
Whom we loved,
Echo still within our thoughts,
Our words, our hearts.
And what they did,
And who they were,
Becomes a part of all that we are,
Forever.

Bob Gordon, father of fallen Chicago Officer
Michael P. Gordon, EOW: 8/8/04

Bob Gordon, Gold Star Father

September 19, 2006

Lito,
I never really told you this but all my life ive looked up to you, same as Jong, you were our HERO. I remember when we first heard you were gonna be a cop, we were so proud. I wanted to tell all my friends My brothers gonna be a cop. And you made it!! You have touched so many lives, more than you could ever imagine! And i'm so proud to be your sister. Lito you have always been a great brother. Whenever i need you youre always there for me......and you always will be. It's sad to know that youre gone but i know i'll see you one day........one SWEET day.

Rest In Peace Lito!! I love you with all my heart!

Emily "Rio" Barber
sister

September 19, 2006

Lito, I still pray for you and your family. God needed you to walk his beat and you are there now doing a wonderfull job. You have inspired me to be a better person. You will be truely miss but never forgotten. "Sa la mat paree"

Ofc. A. Chapackdee
Seattle P.D.

September 15, 2006

God Has The Best Guardian Angel Working For Him Now.

"Barber"

September 13, 2006

"Lito" will always be in your hearts.

September 13, 2006

I did not know this fine young man, but I can tell you where he is right now. Just put your right hand over your heart and he will be there, forever.

September 12, 2006

My dearest Lito,

You've left quite a big void here at home. While Amber has filled some of it it is never enough. For 19 year you were my son and I love you dearly for all those times. You will always be my first child and you know how proud me and your dad was then... more so now. I am so glad to be a big part of your growing up and contributed to what you have become.

I can never forget when you receive the Presidential Award when you graduated at Saint Paul, when we attended the Mother and Son Graduation brunch and your graduation from O'Dea, when you finally graduated from UW and the Police Academy. It was priceless to know that we've done a very good job in raising you. As parents what more can we ask for?? Thank you for being a good son!

You know how much your brother and sister look up to you. They adore and worship you so much it pains me to know you won't be there when they reach their goal (like you have) someday. I know for certain they will become successful in whatever they want to be as your dad and I are doing all our best to guide and nurture them like we did for you. We will do the same for Amber now that she decided to stay with us and we will do our best to help and guide her to her full potential. She has become a part of our family now and I am happy that she feels the same way.

I will miss your weekly visit with us. I will miss receiving gifts from you. I will miss those times when you needed my help in planning your future financially.

I grieve for the lost chance of seeing you walk the aisle, of holding my first grandchild from you, of knowing that you won't be there when we grow old and gray.

Wherever you are I hope you are okey and resting in peace. I love you so much son.

Mitz Barber

September 12, 2006

Lito, it's been a long time cuzin. I didn't really know what happened until I got a voicemail for Lil Rey. My phone was cut off for a month so I'm a little late on the news. Last time I remember seeing you was when we were at that cabin with Uncle, Auntie, and the twins. That was actually the first time I met you. I talked to Rodell the other day he's going through his background for SFPD. For the past year, I been feeling Lolo Odie looking out for me and if you see him let him know that I'm doing ok and that I'm handling business. I know it sucks, I know you wanted to be here for your family but you're still here in everybody's hearts and memories. You still got a place here on Earth with all of us.

Anthony Alvarez
Cousin

September 10, 2006

Officer Barber, thank you. You will always remain in our prayers.

Deputy Chief Gene Bernal
Orlando Police Department

September 5, 2006