Family, Friends & Fellow Officers Remember...

Dan was a Man's Man. He was a role model. He was a true Cop. He was a great Husband, Father & Friend. We can onyl wish there were more people like him in this world. The things he did for his community and kids who are not as well off as others and give them a friendship and something to do instead of getting into trouble. All these things he did for his community, friends and still come home to be a GREAT father and a GREAT husband. His kids loved him and as everyone did, they looked up to him. His wife Dee and him always looked happy together and you could see it in her eyes how proud she was of her husband.

I remember when my family moved into East Haven back in 1997, we met him and his family. The neighbor hood we lived in I think was greatly connected because of him. We all played basket ball at his house, football, and anyother sport. 4th of July was the best because of the fireworks he would put off. He was fun. I remember I was always tlking to him about becoming a cop and what I needed to do. I still have this strong pull towards law enforcement and I feel I should go through with it to honor such a great man. I wish there were more cops like him. He was a great example of what a cop should be.

To his family, If you guys need anything, me and my family are 5 houses down from you. I hope that the love that all these people have for him comfort you and help you to realize he accomplished a lot in so little time. Dee stay strong and to his kids, your father will always be with you.

Sincerely,
Vinnie Borzillo
East Haven, CT

RIP Dan

Vinnie Borzillo
Friend

April 21, 2007

Hey Dan
There is not a day that goes by that we don't think about you. Some one once told me that the hardest part has yet to come, now I see that that is really the truth. Your pictures, your accomplishments that all helps, but the tears just flow. We all miss you so much, the street is not the same. I will however to continue to watch over Dee, you know I love her. Shes amazing...you would be so proud of her. Continue to give her the strenght she needs I know that it comes from a higher power.

We miss you
Happy Easter
Your neighbor, Kim

Kim
Friend

April 9, 2007

well.. i just wanted to say... dan was deff. like my daddy #3.
whenever i would go to his house.. he would always give me advice and he was soo funny.
i am doing everything i can to try to realize that this is not a bad dream & it's a reality. i will never forget him. heaven needed a strong and brave man.. and they got him. i love that whole family and i am sitting next to their foster daughter christina as we speak. r.i.p. dan & you will never ever be forgotten.. especially by me.
forever loved... forever missed.
love always, allison ;]]]
certainly you remember my loud mouth ;]]]
<3

allison apuzzo
family's young friend

April 3, 2007

Dan the MAN!!!!..Dan was such an awesome person...he was always so ready to help everyone..he was our superman..and will be...DEFY will never be the same...but he will always be a big part of our lives..

Friend

April 3, 2007

dan!! i just want to say tht we all love you and miss you dearly. you were a very good mann & good father. alsoo a good husband. take care hope to see you some day. jenn. i love you :]]

marissa g
daughters friend

April 2, 2007

May God Bless You & Your Family as you look down from up above. You will never be forgotten.

Yale University Police

March 22, 2007

DANNY, I AM NOT MUCH FOR WORDS BUT I STILL TO THIS DAY CANNOT BELIEVE THAT YOU ARE NO LONGER HERE WITH US.I RECALL ALL THE MEMORIES WE HAD FROM WOOSLSEY SCHOOL,CHAPEL ST. PARK,FAIR HAVEN,THE ANNEX,AND THE PIT, TO DELIVERING NEWSPAPERS WITH YOUR FATHER TO GOING CRABBING WITH YOUR BROTHER,SAM & I THINK D.J. A FEW TIMES.WHAT IT BASICALLY COMES DOWN TO IS THAT BROTHERS LOOKOUT FOR ONE ANOTHER AND I MISS AND LOVE YOU LIKE A BROTHER. BRIAN KRIPPS

Brian Kripps
Childhood Friend

March 19, 2007

We can be left with nothing greater
than gentle memories
of one who has touched
may lives in many ways.

When we gather happy memories
and hold them close to our hearts,
the gentle spirit of peace
will touch us.

And as we go on celebrating
the time we had together
we'll find the treasure
of remembering
and the comfort of believing
that each life
is indeed a gift...

to be held in our hearts
forever.

Sister-in-law, Tina

February 18, 2007

Dan,it's been three months since we lost you and the pain our department feel's is still incredible intense. It's true that when people are lost way to soon everyone say's how great they were, but you were truly one of the good ones.I'm writing this today because your loss is still so hurtful to us. Two days ago we buried another one of us, Officer Robert Fumiatti. I saw your wife walk into the wake with her head held high. She is truly a classy and remarkable woman. You two were cast from the same mold. You will never be forgotten.

Officer Matthew P. Wynne
Fellow Officer New Haven Police Department

January 15, 2007

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

Aloha Police Officer Dan Picagli,
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 Dan Picagli, I wish you, your loved ones, your fellow officers, and friends, peace and love beyond all understanding.
Me Ke Aloha Pumehana. (With warm and sincere Aloha).

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 9, 2007

Merry Christmas Danny! We miss you..My thoughts and prayers are with you during this holiday season. The city isnt the same without you! Rest easy...we love you!

Ofc. Bridget Brosnahan
New Haven PD

December 25, 2006

Dear Officer Picagli, Family, and Everyone You Touched;

You are truly missed and appreciated for your thoughtfulness, caring, kindness, and most importantly you being my role model. In July when you waved as you were walking with the Youth your smiling face filled the lense and will always be an enbedded reality of how much you truly walk as a leader. Your are a role-model for our youth, as well as adults working with youth. We will miss you on Valentine Day..... love to you and Dee and your childeren. Dee you truly are special and a role-model. Thank you again for being here and there and making a memorable Valentine Day.
Prayers to you and yours,

United Teen Connection, Inc.
Sharon Henninger
Members and Alumni

Sharon Henninger
United Teen Connection, Inc.

December 18, 2006

DAN you are missed by many people and friends and it's Christmas time .I was at the funeral home and I was there the whole time from 3:45 till 8:45 and saw friends and shook alot of officers hands and they all came out to support your family . I will remember you this christmas season by saying a prayer for you and your family . Dan Merry Christmas and Happy New year in Heaven..

Your Friend Edward h. Reinholtz

EDWARD H. REINHOLTZ
FRIEND FROM SCHOOL

December 17, 2006

"FINAL INSPECTION"

The policeman stood and faced his God, which must always come to pass.

He hoped his shoes were shining. Just as bright as his brass. "Step forward now, policeman. How shall I deal with you?

Have you always turned the other cheek?

To My church have you been true?"

The policeman squared his shoulders and said, "No Lord, I guess I ain't, Because those of us who carry badges can't always be a saint.

I've had to work most Sundays, and at times my talk was rough, and sometimes I've been violent, because the streets are awfully tough.

I never took a penny that wasn't mine to keep...

Though I worked a lot of overtime when the bills got just too steep. And I never passed a cry for help, though at times I shook with fear.

And sometimes, God forgive me, I've wept unmanly tears. I know I don't deserve a place among the people here.

They never wanted me around except to calm their fear. if you've a place for me here, Lord, it needn't be so grand.

I never expected or had too much, but if you don't...I'll understand.

There was silence all around the throne where the saints had often trod.

As the policeman waited quitely, for the judgement of his God.

"Step forward now, policeman, You've borne your burdens well.

Come walk a beat on Heaven's streets, You've done you time in hell."

Author Unknown

December 10, 2006

I come to the ODMP often to remember my late fiancé Dennis. Everytime I come here it breaks my heart to know that yet another officer has fallen and that yet another family has to live their lives without the man they loved. My heart goes out to everyone who knew and loved Officer Picagli, especially to his wife. Know that you are not alone in the "journey" that you walk. Should you ever need anything please don't hesitate to contact me. The Davis Co. Sheriff's Office in Iowa will always know how to reach me. You will be in my thoughts.

From reading the reflections left for Dan, he sounds like he was a great man with a beautiful spirit. Those of you who knew him in life were so blessed to have been able to share in it. I hope that you will all continue to find a way to celebrate and remember Dan's life and the MAN that he was. Remember that Dan's life was about so much more than the way he died. Dan will continue to live on as long as we continue to remember him.

Officer Picagli, thank you for helping to make this world a little safer for us all. YOU will not be forgotten. Please continue to watch over all of us as only you can. If you happen to bump into my late fiancé Dennis up there give him a big hug for me and the kids. It's been almost four years but we still miss him terribly.

Wishing you brighter and better days,


Jocelyne :)

"Forever Remembering 26-3"

Jocelyne Brar (Winnipeg, MB Canada)
Surviving Fiancee of Deputy Dennis R. McElderry (EOW: 01/03/03)

November 26, 2006

Dan Dan,

I know that I already expressed myself with a reflecticon on here but I have to tell you something buddy....The past month has been so sad and hard for all of us. Today we had our first DEFY event without you. Although the kids had fun but they all spoke about how much they missed officer Dan. We had so many good times together. You always turned something bad into a possitive thing. It has been so different since your not around. You know they have brought me reports and papers that have written at school about a great man named Officer Dan who made a difference in there lives. Thank you so much for the impact and the difference that you made in all there lives even when there own parents havent done so. Today was a sad day. Camy DEFY kids main link was not there to guide us, make us laugh and show love and understanding to these tender children who idoled you.

Dan there isnt one day that goes by that we dont think of you. People must think Im crazy because I drive around with your picture taped to the back window of my car but you know why I do that? Because now your our guardian angel. You will live in our hearts forever and although DEFY will never be the same with out you, your legacy will be carried as our leader and hero. I promise to always encourage the kids to follow your foot steps and be just like Officer Dan.

We Love you and miss you so much....Your second family CAMP DEFY...
Dee you know Im here and just a phone call away. I ask god to give you commfort and peace throught these holidays and remember... He is watching down on you and all of us from heaven. We love you Dee & Kids....

Luz Garcia
Co-worker

Luz Garcia, Weed & Seed Coordinator
Co-Worker/Friend

November 21, 2006

Dear Family,Friends and Co-Workers of Officer Picagli, As the Holiday's approach, may you find peace and comfort in Knowing that your Fallen Officer Family is thinking of you and lifting you up in their prayers. Our love comes to you as we celebrate Officer Picagli's life and the sacrifice he gave for each of us. I salute you Officer Picagli, continue to keep watch over those who love you dearly and the rest of us. Carolyn Moore mother-in-law of Sgt. Jeffrey T. Hewitt EOW 04-04-04 Asheville,N.C.

carolyn moore

November 19, 2006

DANNY,
IT'S BEEN APPROXIMATELY ONE MONTH SINCE THAT AWFUL AND PAINFUL NIGHT.TO THIS DATE,I CANNOT BELIEVE YOU ARE NO LONGER HERE WITH US.IT SEEMS LIKE YESTERDAY WE WERE AT CAMP WITH THE KIDS HAVING A GREAT TIME. THE PAST THREE YEARS WE WORK WITH THE CAMP DEFY/WEED AND SEED PROGRAM, I LEARNED SO MUCH ON HOW YOU MANAGED YOUR TIME WITH THE KIDS IN THE COMMUNITY AND THE TIME YOU SPENT WITH YOUR FAMILY.I WILL NEVER BE YOU , BUT I PROMISE TO USE EVERYTHING THAT I LEARNED FROM YOU TO CONTINUE YOUR LEGACY AND YOUR INFLUENCE ON THIS CITY. YOU ARE IN A BETTER PLACE AND "WE WILL NEVER FORGET YOU", MAY GOD BE WITH YOUR LOVE ONES. UNTIL WE MEET AGAIN MY BROTHER, PEACE. YOUR FRIEND, "Q"

OFFICER QUINCY D. FREEMAN
NEW HAVEN POLICE DEPARTMENT

November 18, 2006

To my cousin Dan,

I cannot express how deeply your passing has touched me. Even though we hadn't seen each other very often over the years, the memories of our childhood were always with me. The many weekends of playing ATARI with your little brother, watching you play hockey, our families having holidays together, and of course, sharing chocolate milk are the times I will always treasure. I wish our families would have gotten together, but as time goes by, we all have our own lives and we never get to spend the time that we should have. I regret that our kids never played together or that we didn't keep in touch, now we'll never get to do that. You were such a great person, everyone that knew you, loved you so much! I'm proud to say that we're cousins. I love you and miss you. Dee, I will keep you and the kids in my prayers always. Take care of yourself and remember how much Dan loved you and still does.

Love always,
Cousin Carol

Dan's Cousin

November 17, 2006

HI DAN,
JUST REMEMBERING THE COUNTLESS HOURS, DAYS, WEEKS,MONTHS, YEARS OF PLAYING HOCKEY, BASEBALL, BASKETBALL, FOOTBALL, AND ANY OTHER THING WE COULD COMPETE AT FROM SUN UP TO SUNDOWN EVERY DAY RAIN, SHINE, SNOW IT DIDN'T MATTER WE JUST HAD TO TRY TO BEAT EACH OTHER FROM WHO COULD SCORE MORE GOALS TO WHO COULD HIT MORE HOMERUNS FROM SALTONSTALL PARK TO NEW HAVEN Y.M.C.A. FROM WOOLSEY SCHOOL TO MY FRONT YARD IT DIDN'T MATTER AS LONG AS WE WERE COMPETING AT SOMETHING. ALL THE WAY UP TO COACHING YOUR KIDS AND TELLING THEM THE STORIES OF WHEN WE WERE KIDS. I WILL ALWAYS BE THERE FOR THEM AND DO MY PART TO KEEP THEM IN SPORTS. AFTER ALL THAT WAS THE BEST PART OF OUR GROWING UP. AND I WILL HELP TO MAKE IT PART OF THEIRS. DEE, DJ, MATT,JEN,CHRISTINA MY HEART IS ALWAYS WITH YOU GUYS AND YOU KNOW WHERE I LIVE. ANYTIME, ANYPLACE, ANYTHING JUST A PHONE CALL AWAY. DAN TILL WE COMPETE AGAIN THANKS FOR BEING PART OF MY LIFE MY CHILDHOOD WOULD NOT HAVE BEEN THE SAME WITH OUT YOU IN IT.

LATER
TOMMY

TOM DEMATTEO
FRIEND

November 16, 2006

Danny-
Life at the "pit" won't be the same without you. You were so much more than a police officer, you were truly a great person and will be missed by many. Anyone who knew you knew that Dee and the kids were #1 in your heart.Please know that they are always in our thoughts and prayers, and we will be here for them anytime. Why such a wonderful person was taken so suddenly won't be known until we meet again in heaven, but God must have needed a great guy there. May you rest in peace
Dee- Please know that we are always here for you, anytime.

Ginger DeMatteo & Girls
Friends

November 16, 2006

danny you where the man to all our family i will never in my lifetime let you down i,ll always think of what you siad and how you was i,ll be there for dee and family for life being you was my life and second brother love ya bro i,m sure your in good place now i,ve done a dedication for you bro at lakeview all that night had people singing your favorite tunes in kareyoki night you would be proud of all the ppls that loved you and will stand by you and family i no i,ll never forget what we had and family

gilbert avery
friend-brother

November 15, 2006

Dan,
you were always there for me and you always guided me in the right direction. You never left anyone behind and you always made sure everyone was happy before yourself. I miss you deeply and i know god has someone very special with him up there in heaven. you are a great guy dan, and you always will be. you have been there for me when i needed you the most and i will never forget that. i love you and i will always have a place in my heart for you.
love always,
a dear friend

alyssa
friend

November 14, 2006

dan

dan, you were like a second father to me. when i was hurt or needed your help you were there for me. playing hockey outside or baseball at the pit isnt the same without you. its just not going to be the same without your competiveness or snowball fights outside. Im goin to miss going to the gym and playing hockey or wiffleball with you. From this day on every hockey game or baseball game i play, the win is for you. I am the player i am now because you tought me alot more skills and i will always remember that.

your best friend
tom brunski

tom brunski
friend

November 14, 2006

Danny

I know God has a great person in heaven, cause he took you from us. I will never understand why, we miss you so much. The hockey games in front just aren't the same without you, not to mention the Margharita's on the deck.I promise you I will forever help my best friend, and the kids...you need not worry. Until we meet again, take care of yourself, we miss you deeply.

Love ya,
Kim

Kim Brunski
friend

November 14, 2006