Family, Friends & Fellow Officers Remember...

Dave-
I can't begin to let you or those who love you know how deeply you are missed. I look at my time with you and your brothers at the Sheriff's Department with much fondness and laughter. You were all an example to me of what honest, just and proud men can do in law enforcement.We are so grateful to have known you and your family; the impact of your passing has left a hole in all of us. Thanks so much for all you did.

Dave and Abbe
Maine State Police/Maine Warden Service

December 18, 2006

To the Rancourt Family,

There are no words in this world to express my true sympathy for your loss. I was lucky to be able to know Dave ; and Though I may not have known him as well as I would have liked, through his wife and son it is very clear how much of a wonderful man he truly was. Dave was a true hero to many different people in many different ways, and his memory will continue to inspire others for years to come. Dave may not be with us on earth, but he is still with us in our memories, our thoughts and our prayers. May he watch over his family and fellow officers with as much love and grace as he did in his time here on earth.

Dave... please know that your family will be watched over by all of us. You have served your family,country, and county above and beyond the call of duty. I am honored to have been able to know you and to know your wonderful family. Your memory and life will live on forever in the stories from friends and family, and with every look into your children's eyes. Until we all meet again, May you rest in peace....

Love,
Becky

Rebecca
University Of Maine Police ORONO

December 14, 2006

Thank you for the way you chose to live your life, Deputy Rancourt. My state, my country and my world are better because of you.
Rest in Peace, 1SG.

Citizen of Maine

December 13, 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 Deputy Rancourt, 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 David, 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 David's life and the MAN that he was. Remember that David's life was about so much more than the way he died. David will continue to live on as long as we continue to remember him.

Deputy Rancourt, 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)

December 11, 2006

Dave,

It has been many long weeks; though no longer on this plain, you are in our hearts and minds, and will always be remembered.

“Diver in.”

Deputy Dennis Dorsey, Dive Master
Washington County Sheriff's Deptartment

December 6, 2006

There are no words I can offer to help comfort you as this holiday season approaches except that you are not alone and you will be in my thoughts. David is a true hero and heroes never die. David, keep watch over your loved ones and those still out on patrol. You will never be forgotten.

Bob Gordon
Father of Fallen Chicago Officer: Michael P. Gordon, EOW: 8/8/04

November 21, 2006

It has only been a couple of weeks since your passing, and not a day goes by that my husband or I don't think of you and your family. Even though we all know you are in a better place it does not ease the pain. You were one of a kind! Thank you Dave for all you did for our country and community. Please keep your brothers in blue safe. We are all here to take care of Dawn and the kids. Rest peacefully. You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers.

Wife Of Sheriff's Deputy

November 21, 2006

Dave it's been a honor to have known you for the forty years of your life. You we're always a very special cousin to me. I'm proud of you and will miss you. I'm still in a state of shock, I just can't believe your gone. I will be there for Dawn, Jeromey and baby. Until we meet again cousin rest in peace. Love and miss you.

Cousin

November 20, 2006

Thank you for all of your sacrifices. You will never be forgotten

Boston Police Deptarment

November 18, 2006

I didn't really know you that well although I did meet you a fwe times through my mom and whenever a cop dies it affects me because I think of my mom. I just wanted to say rest in peace and I know that now your in a better place.

Daughter of a cop

November 18, 2006

Dave,

Although younger than you, I remember the years of looking up to you and all in the sand hill gang. I longed to be all of your friends and know what you all knew as the "older kids".

It has been a while since we have seen each other, however do know that I have often thought of you and your family.

Dawn, although we have not really gotten to know each other, do know that daily I think of you. Although I can't imagine all that you are going through at this time...my heart hurts for you all.

To the Rancourt family.....losing a son and brother, there is nothing like it. Please know that I am with you in your pain and suffering as well as your rememberance.

Hold onto all the memories. They are precious and in the darkest hours, can bring a smile to your face. Be it something he said, or did.

You are with God now my dear cousin. As with everyone else, I am still in shock, however we know that you are free and living the life we are longing to have. Watch closely over Dawn and the kids.

We shall never forget..........

Cousin

November 17, 2006

Dave you will be forever missed. Stand down Deputy, we have the watch from here.

Patrol
Maine

November 17, 2006

Dear Family,Friends and Co-Workers of Deputy David Rancourt, May the Peace of God rest upon you as the Holiday's approach. They are so hard. As I review reflections of Fallen Officer's. I think my heart breaks a little bit more. How I hurt with you,and there isn't one word i can say that can ease the emptiness your feeling. As I read about David,the tears rolled down my face,as it brought back the memory of my son-in-law that served in Desert Storm with the Marines. Family, please know your Thin Blue Line Family is praying for you, remembering you,and holding you in our thoughts. Heaven,I have always been taught is more beautiful than our mortal eyes can comprehend, I'm beginning to understand, for Hero's never die and shine forever. David will always be remembered,and he will be watching over each of you every moment of every day. I salute you David, take your rest now for a job well done. Thank you for the ultimate sacrifice you made. Carolyn Moore mother-in-law of Sgt.Jeffrey T.Hewitt EOW 04-04-04 Ashevill,N.C.

carolyn moore

November 17, 2006

Dave

You will always be our "SandHill Hero". May you rest in peace.

Good Friend

November 16, 2006

David,
A week has passed since we laid you to rest. It is still difficult to believe that this has happened. You wore many "hats" and accomplished more than most while wearing them. As a law enforcement officer, you did more than patrol. You functioned as a field training officer, training our new Deputies. You were the Captain of our agency Dive Team. And a member of the Honor Guard.
As a soldier you were the First Sergeant for the 619th Transportation Company. You completed two tours of duty in Iraq, and had been awarded th Bronze Star.
As a husband and father you were actively involved in both roles. All around you could see your love for Dawn and Jeromey and your excitement about the new baby.
So, these were more than just titles for you. You demonstrated and exceeded what was expected of you.
Our country, the state of Maine and the county of Androscoggin has lost a valued citizen, soldier and Deputy.
You will be sadly missed and NEVER forgotten. Dawn, Jeromey and baby will be watched over and cared for by your friends and family at the Androscoggin County Sheriff's Department.

Rest In Peace... Celeste, Dennis and Jeremy Sampson

Deputy Dennis Sampson
Androscoggin County Sheriff Department

November 16, 2006

To my partner, my friend and my brother. I am still in shock and disbelief about your loss. I will never forget the many nights we spent together and watched each other's back. Through thick and thin, we always kept each other in line. For the times in need, I wouldn't have to look over my shoulder, I always knew you would be there. To a caring, loving, generous, father, husband and friend, you will be never forgotten. 15 will always be 10-8 en-route.

Sgt. Jim Jacques
Androscoggin County Sheriff's Dept.

November 16, 2006

Dear Family, Friends, and Co-Workers of Deputy Sheriff David Rancourt,

We are so sorry to here about your tragic loss of your fallen loved one. Our thoughts and prayers go out to you in support during this very difficult time. We wish we could be there in person to offer support. We know that sometimes there is little comfort that comes from words. As the holidays draw nearer remember those special moments you have shared together and the love you shared. Keep focused as you can on the memories and joyous times for these things may bring you comfort. Rely heavily on family, friends, and other law enforcement for support. Honor your fallen loved one, for their sacrifice will not be forgotten. Deputy Sheriff David Rancourt is a hero. He will live on through all of you forever.

Respectfully,

Alissa Scott
Widow of Beryl Wayne Scott
E.O.W. 09-10-02

Lisa Schultz
Widow of Don Schultz
E.O.W. 05-12-04

Co-Founders of Survivor Help Network

November 14, 2006

To my FTO, my partner, and my Friend. It has been over a week since you were taken from us. I still can’t comprehend why, At 530 I still look out in my drive way to see if the sheriff truck is in my yard ready to start our shift. I have learned everything from you. It was an honor meeting and escorting your father during your funeral. I have said it once I will say it again, in my career I hope I can be a good Husband, Father and Police Officer like you were. I hope you will watch over me every shift and keep me safe. However County 15 may be 10-7 County 26 will continue in your foot steps. I thank you again for all you have taught me. I don’t believe in Good Bye’s but until we meet again. Rest in Peace to my FTO, my partner, and my Friend.

GOD SPEED
NPB(26)

Deputy Nicholas Benoit
Deputy Androscoggin sheriff dept

November 14, 2006

When we started our dive on Nov. 4th, 2006, I had no idea I would be returning to shore less one friend and dive partner. Thanks for all the laughs, you'll be deeply missed by the entire team.
May God watch over your family with your assistance. Tell my daughter I said Hi. It's not my time yet but when it comes I will gladly stand by your side anytime. Rest In Peace my friend.

Lt. Rick Coron
Auburn PD- Dive Team Member

November 13, 2006

God Bless Deputy Sheriff Rancourt

God Bless Deputy Sheriff Rancourt's Family

God Bless The Androscoggin County Sheriff's Department

Trooper
New Jersey State Police

November 13, 2006

For the past 10 years we have worked together and have been friends. You will be surely missed by all who have gotten to know you. I will personally miss your laid back attitude, that nod of your head and laugh that you had especially when we asked you who was the boss at your house, talking at coffee breaks, the summer get togethers and our, "One time at band camp..." stories. Rest assured that you will not be forgotten and your wife and children will be forever cared for. Your death has been the hardest call I have ever had to go on in 16 years. It was a true honor to be able to help your wife and family prepare for your funeral. I know it was more than what you probably would have wanted but you deserved it! May you rest in peace my friend. WMG

Detective Sergeant
Androscoggin Sheriff's Dept.

November 13, 2006

"Yet once again the Thin Blue Line is diminished,
an officer’s final tour of duty is finished.
"Officer down", it’s our greatest fear,
and once again, I hold back a tear.
They patrol in the state, city, county and town,
in uniforms colored white, green, blue and brown.
The shape of their badges may vary,
but it’s a symbol that they all, proudly carry.
They leave for work with a kiss goodbye,
but some don’t come home, no matter how hard they try.
To uphold the law is the job that they pick,
with such high aspirations, why must some die so quick?
They leave behind loved ones, family and friends,
after their lives have met tragic ends.
Some die in crashes, others hearts not too stout,
too many have been lost when gunshots ring out.
Our Heavenly Father has called them home,
no more these dark streets do they roam.
Through trial and error they have given their best,
please Lord, now grant them eternal rest.
Yet once again the Thin Blue Line is diminished,
an officer’s final tour of duty is finished.
"Officer down", it’s our greatest fear,
and once again I hold back a tear.

God bless you and your family! Keep watching over us, we will resume the watch from here..."

PC Dave STUBBS
Staffordshire Police, England

November 13, 2006

Dave,
You have changed my life in so many ways. I wouldn't be where I am today if it wasn't for you. Even in the afterlife you continue to influence me. I know you are watching over all of us. You will be deeply missed. RIP 1SG.

Spc Christopher Hutchings
619th TC USAR, Kennebec SO

November 12, 2006

Rest in peace Brother, May God Bless you and your family.

Patrolman

November 12, 2006

David J,

I still can't believe you are gone, but the wonderful memories will get us through. I enjoyed working with you while I was at the SO, you were and still are the best, and yes you were my favorite. But we don't have to let the rest know that. Ken and I will always be there for Dawn, J-man, and the baby. I will think of you always and will miss you forever. Rest in peace my friend. Love Natalie and Ken.

Natalie Bragdon

November 12, 2006