Family, Friends & Fellow Officers Remember...

Jess,

As I left a reflection for Scott tonight, I couldn't help but think of you and I just wanted you to know that! Keep your head up!

Trish

Trish Wertz
Widow of Fallen Officer Scott A. Wertz - EOW 8/6/06

January 8, 2007

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

Aloha Investigator David Petzold,
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 a word or two on behalf of each and every fallen officer.

Every fallen officer is an hero. The ODMP serves as a place where that continuum of "LIGHT" can be seen through and within, the heart and soul of each and every person who honors our fallen heroes with a relection and/or tribute. As we say in Hawaii, we are `Ohana. We are family.

May God comfort the family and loved ones who have lost their beloved David. May God also comfort those who have lost a fellow officer and friend that can never be replaced in this lifetime.

I wish you peace and love beyond all understanding.
May you rest in peace Investigator David Petzold.
Me Ke Aloha Pumehana. Amen.

**I pray all find comfort in this Hawaiian prayer I leave you.**

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 Island

January 4, 2007

Hi Jess,

Hard to believe that today is 8 weeks...
The Holidays are over and you made it!

I have thought about you every day since the last time I saw you ~ the day your tree was delivered. I was praying for strength, for you to get through the holidays - how hard that must have been.

Please know that I think of you a lot.
See you soon!
Love, Stacey

January 4, 2007

Hi Jess ~

Happy New Year to you and the kids. I'm sure you can't believe you are ringing in a new year without Dave; I'm sure your heart is just breaking all over again. Just hang in there, you are doing such an amazing job holding everything together.

I realized when I came on here this morning that there was something I should have mentioned to you. It was so hard for me to come on this site in the beginning of 2006 and realize that Jesse was no longer considered a "current" line of duty death - he had been archived. I should have thought to tell you about that, but if you are reading this reflection than you already know it. 2007 starts a new list - and hopefully it will be shorter than 2006.

Anyway, I wanted you to know that I was thinking of you today and wishing you a New Year that will bring much better things. Take care and we'll talk again soon.

Love ~
Carin

January 1, 2007

Hi Jess,
I am a coward... I haven't called you since the last time we spoke, because I want to say the right thing... and there is no "right thing" to say. It's easier for me to write how I feel, so here goes...
I think of you and the kids every day, and I wish I would have done a better job at keeping in touch with you since I left D&B. It took a tragedy for me to drive the few miles down 309 to even come see you... and I'm so sorry for that!
I want you to know that I had a nice long "chat" with my Dad. He has been gone more than 31 years, and I was 8 when he passed away. I asked him to look out for Dave and to give him some advice on how to be a good guardian angel-daddy. I have peace in my heart and comfort in believing that my dad has looked out for me and given me heavenly protection since the day he died, and I know Dave is doing the same. I'd like to believe that my dad and Dave have already found each other in heaven, because there is no doubt a special place there for amazing fathers (especially ones who love jokes and mischief!)
The legacy that Dave has left behind, in the short period of time he did have with you and the kids, is a legacy of love and caring that will surpass time, space and the boundaries of earth and heaven. The greatest gift my dad ever gave me was the absolute certainty that he loved me unconditionally, and Dave has given that gift to your kids as well. A father's love never dies... that much I know for sure.
Love ya,
Kristin

Kristin K.
Friend of Jess's

December 27, 2006

Thank you to everyone who has left supportive messages and continues to check in on Dave's page and in person. Your thoughts, prayers and everyday help have continued to make it bearable for myself and the kids to move on.
Have a wonderful holiday season and please give your loved ones an extra hug so that they remember they are truly special to you.
God Bless you all,
Jessica

December 26, 2006

Hi Hon,
Unbelievably Christmas has come and gone. It was extremely tiresome and emotionally draining, but at the same time it went well. The kids were as excited as usual and amazingly Jonathan even knew what to do with the presents.
Unbelievably Kimmie and Mike had there baby on Christmas Day! Mommy and baby are doing great and they are sure that you had a hand in that little timing surprise. I know that you were sooo excited the day that Mike told you Kim was pregnant, so it hurt today when I saw the little guy and you weren't there to share it with. He's beautiful and I gave him a kiss for you.
You were missed monumentally and Christmas night was very hard to make it thru, but we are still taking it day by day. It simply sucks. But the girls and Jonathan keep me going. He looks just like you Dave, amazingly more so every day.

We miss you hon, Merry Christmas.
Love,
Jess

December 26, 2006

Dear Jessica and the family of Officer Petzold,
My thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult Holiday Season. God Bless you all, and may your New Year be filled with health, and as much happiness as possible. You are in our hearts and our prayers always.

BPD WIFE

December 26, 2006

Hi Jess ~

I wanted you to know that I'm thinking of you and the kids as you endure this first Christmas without Dave. Every day is tough, every holiday is hard, but Christmas is just unbearable. I'm sure today wasn't easy and that you are breathing a sigh of relief that it is almost over. I hope you made it through the day alright and were able to find some happiness with the kids - we have to keep going for them.

Thank you so much for calling last night, it was so good to talk to you. You really make me laugh - I hope you enjoyed midnight mass! Would you believe Savannah woke up around 12:45 and snuck downstairs to see if Santa had come? But she walks so heavy, just like her father, so of course I heard her stomp stomping through the house and looked at the clock and thought of you - so I genuflected one more time for good measure!

Anyway, please know that I am thinking of you. I know it doesn't seem possible to you that in 2 weeks Dave will be gone 2 months - but do you realize that you are making it?! You are continuing on and doing a great job - Dave must be so proud of you! Time will continue on, which will break your heart, but it will also heal your wounds and soften your pain. Everything will be alright. Happy holidays, Jess.

I'll talk to you tomorrow, and we'll get together again this week.

Much love ~
Carin

December 25, 2006

Hi Jess. Well, it is 2:00 a.m. Christmas morning and I can't help but think about you and your children. I wonder if you are still awake like me? I would like to wish you a Merry Christmas, but I know there is nothing Merry about it. I will try to get through the day and I am wishing you lots of strength to get through it as well. I'm trying to think of how happy the kids will be when they open their gifts. It is a little comforting, but not much! Thinking of you!

Trish

Trish Wertz
Loving Widow of slain Officer Scott Wertz

December 25, 2006

dear jess ...
i wanted to wish u and the kids a very merry x-mas..please stay strong..there are lots of people thinking of u including myself and my kids......time has the tendacy to heal all wounds

paramedic
easton,pa

December 22, 2006

Hi Dave,
I wanted to tell you Merry Christams and of course we all wish you were here. I took the girls out in the past two weeks to do some Christmas shopping and having them out separately was a real treat to see how truly unique they are. They are growing up so fast, even since you have pasted they have seemed to become young ladies! Jonathan is getting so big and I want you to know I will watch over him carefully as he will be closer to me during the day now. Thank you for granting my last wish from before! As always you didn't let me down, it is great to have my sister back again. Although I know she pains for you I have the relief that she knows I am here for her and the ability to talk to her again.
Dave, I wish you peace, I miss you so and I love you, Alison

Ali
sister (in-law)

December 22, 2006

Jess,
I tried to get this out on the phone but I always feel that I'm just inadequate when I talk to you because I try not to upset you. Once again you asked me how I am (you are always so selfless)...while it's been 5 years since mom passed and this will be the first Christmas without dad, my heart has learned to deal with the grief and pain a little better with the passing days. Having dealt with some of that, my heart breaks for you and for the kids. What you are dealing with is so much more than anything I've ever faced and I know I've expressed it before but your strength and courage amazes me. You're an inspiration to anyone who knows you. This holiday is going to be so hard for you, but if I know you, you'll hide it all so that everyone else finds some joy in them. Know that I am here and I will continue to be when you have those moments where you might find yourself alone and hurting more than normal. I love you and I'm always thinking about you, I know that Dave is watching over you and missing you as much as you are missing him and I know that he is so proud of you. You are not alone, please let me know if there is anything at all you need.
Val

Val
Friend

December 21, 2006

Dear Dave ~

Thank you so much for bringing your wonderful family into my life. Jessica is just amazing - she is really strong and is doing such a wonderful job keeping things together. Your children are beautiful; the girls are so full of energy and life, my daughter had a great time playing with them. And your son is just precious!(and quite the little stinker!) I'm sure you and Jesse are happy that we have all found each other.

Jess keeps thanking me but it is me who should be thanking her. It is so nice to be able to sit and talk with someone who understands - really understands - how I feel and what I've gone through. I wish it wasn't tragedy that brought us together, but I am so grateful that she has come into my life.

Jess ~ I know this Christmas is extremely difficult for you, just do the best you can to get through it. I will be thinking of you this weekend and wishing you a warm and blessed holiday. I'll talk to you next week and we'll get together again (via the short route).

Much love,
Carin

December 20, 2006

Dear Jessica,

You don't know me, however, I am a resident of Upper Saucon Township. I was very saddened to hear of the death of your husband.

My father passed away 9 years ago on December 22. He was very ill with cancer. I was pregnant w/ my first child. I was able to tell him that I was pregnant, but he unfortunately did not make it to see my son. I know that you are going through a rough time right now, but I assure you that it will get better as time goes by. It was very hard for me as well. I was so upset that my dad didn't get to meet his grandchild. He couldn't wait until I had a baby. It was heartbreaking. My son is what got me through it and he still is. Christmas is hard for my family as well, but having my son now helps all of us, especially my mom. Take the comfort of your friends and family and most of all your three children to help you through this most difficult time.

I wish the best for you and your family. May God bless you this Christmas Season and in the coming year.

Cindy
Upper Saucon Resident

December 17, 2006

I read today about the Golf Tournament and have seen other reflections and while I didn't know Officer Petzold, I gather he was a fine man, a great friend, a loving husband and father. I hope that the support his wife has received continues to give her strenght and that the community never forgets this fallen hero. Rest in Peace

Elaine Toth

December 16, 2006

Hi Hon,
Well today was the Golf Benefit. It went really well. Tons of people showed up from near and far...and were able to hang out and have some fun. The weather was incredible for the middle of December and thankfully we didn't freeze too bad.(Thank you for that!) However, if the Chief or I ever see another hot dog it will be too soon.
I know you hate all of this fuss, but it seems to be helping out a lot of other people as well as me in a way. One sweet gentlemen said to me today, that he had never seen anyone as smiley as me. I said to him, how can you not smile, when you see all of these people there in an attempt to help in one way or another. If nothing else hon, you've touched the community yet again in just another way. Unbelievable....

Sarah had her first bad day today where she was able to express that she missed you. She's been my little rock this whole time, but at least now I know she really is hurting and she is able to express it. Samantha has the unspeakable faith that you always had. She has been amazing and this week brought home a beautiful picture of you as an angel. She gets it.
Tomorrow my parents and I will be taking the kids on their first train ride and they are so excited. I wish you could be there. I wish alot of things...but unfortunately no one has the magic wand or the time machine.
I miss you more than anything in the world and always remember that....
'I'll love you forever.
I'll like for always.
Till the end of time....' you know the rest.

Love you,
me

December 15, 2006

Dear Family, Friends, and Co-Workers of Investigator David Petzold,

We are so sorry to here about your tragic loss of your 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. Investigator Petzold 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

December 14, 2006

Hi hon,
Tonight was the girls Christmas concert. They looked so pretty all dressed up. Both of the them are starting to look like little women instead of the little girls that they have been. They were so excited and did so well. Had Mike and Kim sat next to me, we would have taken up a whole pew there were so many of us there to cheer them on. They did great, and I'm sure in some way you were watching over it all.

All of us miss you and love you.
Sweet dreams hon.
~Jess

December 12, 2006

Hi Mrs. Petzold,

I read your reflection on Scott's page - THANK YOU! I can't tell you how many times since 11/9 you have been in my thoughts and prayers. When I heard of David's death on the 69 News I cried and wanted so badly to just come and talk to you. I sat down many nights and struggled with what to write on David's page to you. I have read his reflections. I know first hand there is nothing anyone can say or do to help ease your pain. I called the Upper Saucon Township Police Department today and asked them to pass my phone number onto you. PLEASE call me anytime day or night (it still takes me until 1:00 - 2:00 in the morning before I can bring myself to try to go to sleep) because I know EXACTLY what you mean! Believe me, I understand what you mean about the children also - because if it wouldn't be for the children, I wouldn't be here!! It has not gotten any easier for me and it has been four months - so hang in there!! Please - the same goes to you - call if you need anything! Your husband was also a hero and I think of your family often!! Hopefully one day - sooner rather than later - we can meet - before National Policeman's Week. I hope reading my reflections helps you because I know when I read others - I feel like I am looking in the mirror. I have had the pleasure of meeting and leaning on another widow (Denise Wise). Her husband was killed in 2004. She has been such a wonderful help. So again, please call if you need anything. I know it helps to have someone who has actually experienced what you are going through to talk to and cry to. Hope to hear from you soon!

Trish

Tricia Wertz
Widow of slain officer Scott A. Wertz

December 11, 2006

We all hope we will never have to send our heroes to heaven... I pray you will find some peace in your heart. God Bless.

Jessica
officers girlfriend

December 11, 2006

Hi Hon,
I can't believe it's been a month. I can't believe it's been a day...let alone a month. A month since I last talked to you, kissed you, slept beside you, felt your touch, teased you, told you to "be careful" one last time... I sit here at night not knowing what to do with myself and why I should bother. It seems to get harder as time goes on instead of easier and again I wonder why should I bother....
But then I peak in on the girls sleeping and your son snuggled up in his crib and then I'm reminded why.
They are getting so big so quickly. They remind me every day of you and yet they are their own unique special selves. You are so proud I know.

I worry about the guys, your parents, and brothers and sisters and my parents and our friends. They are all struggling and miss you so. I'll keep praying for strength and you keep an eye on them okay?

You always said I would be able to go on with out you....but I have to admit I'm struggling also. I still can't believe it's been a month....

I miss you.
Forever and always hon,
~Jess

December 10, 2006

Dave,

Your tragic accident happened four weeks ago today yet I still find it to be surreal. During this time, I have not been able to put my thoughts into words. I have continued to search for an explanation and continue to find myself remembering the night of your death. I was playing “UNO” with the girls in their bedroom. Cathy brought the girls their usual chicken nuggets for dinner. (Well, they weren’t so “usual” because they weren’t from a box, but they were sufficient.) Samantha became a bit upset because they were “cold”. Of course, Cathy took them to the microwave to heat them up. Sarah was eating while I shuffled. Samantha was just quietly watching us when she asked me “Do you know that my Daddy died?” I told her I knew and began to cry. She told me God needed your help more than we did. At the time, I felt they were just the words of a six year old and smiled. However after four weeks of pondering, I have realized Samantha’s words are the only explanation.

There are only a handful of people I know that are truly genuine. This is a word I have thought of often when I think of you and your family. You always did what was best and what was right. For goodness sake, your face should be pictured in the dictionary next to the word “rational”. I honestly don’t know if you ever told anyone “NO” without feeling bad about it.

You are my brother, my partner, and most of all, my friend. I miss you Dave. Your smiling face, your aggravated looks, your crossed arms. I talk to you often, and hope that you hear me. I will never forget your loyalty, your honor, or your compassion. We sometimes ask ourselves “What are we going to do?” I think Tommy said it best when he said, “What would Dave do?” I love you buddy. May you rest in peace.

MF 05 05 05

Patrolman Michael C. Fritts
Upper Saucon P.D.

December 7, 2006

Dave,
To say that you are missed is the biggest understatement. Unfortunately you never really know how much someone means to you until they're gone. I wanted you to know how wonderful I thought you were as Jess's husband and that you are one of the best father's I have ever known. The dedication and time that you put into everything you did for your home and family was obvious to everyone who knew you. Jess mentioned that she has been reading this page, and while I had heard of it I hadn't looked at it until today. You were so loved by everyone who knew you and even those who didn't because of the wonderful caring person you were and while it is hard to read these without crying and missing you even more it is also comforting to share those feelings with others. I will do my best to help Jess with whatever she needs and I have to tell you she is the strongest person I have ever met. I know that inside she is hurting, lost and lonely but she doesn't let that show to the outside world. Just as you will be watching her and the kids from above, we are all going to do our best to help from here to make sure that the family that you worked so hard to build and protect continues to thrive.
With love always,
Val

Val

December 6, 2006

Jessica,
You do not know me and we will probably never meet, but I wanted to pass along my condolences. My brother serves with a police department not far from you and I worry about him everyday. His dept. recently lost 2 officers in the line of duty and I know how deeply it effects everyone. Officers have a strong brotherhood and you can take comfort in knowing you will be supported by each of them. As other officers have informed you through their Reflections, David's watch has been taken care of. All that's left for you to do is take care of your little ones, but mainly yourself. They need you now, more than ever. David will always be with you.

Take care.

Steph
Sister of a PO

December 5, 2006