Family, Friends & Fellow Officers Remember...

Keith,
it's been two weeks since your funeral and I still can't believe what has happened. I haven't really accepted it yet. I still sit in the office waiting for you to come strolling in wearing a stained up sweatshirt and some cargo shorts. I felt that it was important for me to say to you and anyone that reads this how big of an honor it was to work with you for the past three years. I wanted to say thank you for all of the answers to all the questions that I asked you over that time. When I started in the Vice Unit I was really nervous, but never once did you make me feel not welcome. From day one you were always willing to help me in any way you could, and for that I will be forever grateful. I never really realized how much you have rubbed off on me and all of us. Just today I was "Dresselizing" somebody and I have to admit it felt pretty good, now I see why you did it all of the time. I just wanted to leave this and say thanks for everything. I just hope that you know how much you were appreciated. And trust me when I say that I will never forget "I.A.A.T.F." Rest in peace brother.

Det. K. Braun #2309
Toledo Police Vice/Narcotics

March 11, 2007

Sometimes you get the bad guys and sometimes they
get you. I couldn't attend the funeral. I couldn't watch it
on T.V., but because I could read 21 pages of reflections from people that cared, I can know him at a
distance. I loved the letter from his Mom, too! I love his
sense of humor, his drive, his unceasing passion and his love for his family. Yep, we've lost a good one! My
heart goes out to his family at work because they get to
know him best and their pain really runs deep. I send
my heartfelf condolences on such a truly great loss. He
will always remain in the hearts of those who knew him
and those who didn't. God bless you on this painful
journey and may you trust Him to heal your brokenness.
Lynn Kole
Washington State

March 11, 2007

Kieth-
Never been one to sugar coat, and well, neither were you. For all the comments we made back and forth to each other, saying goodbye to you was not one ever wished for. I have gone back and forth on what to write, not to write, etc. I think it all comes down to this...

The Dash, Linda Ellis
I read of a man who stood to speak
At the funeral of a friend.
He referred to the dates on his tombstone,
From the beginning to the end.

He noted that first came the date of his birth
And spoke the follwing date with tears,
But he said what mattered most of all
Was the dash between those years.

For that dash represents all the time
That he spent alive on earth.
And now only those who loved him
Know what that little line is worth.

For it matters not how much we own;
The cars, the house, the cash,
What matters is how we live and love
And how we spend our dash.

So think about this long and hard.
Are there things you'd like to change?
For you never know how much time is left,
That can still be rearranged.

f we could just slow down enough
To consider what's true and real
And always try to understand
The way other people feel.

And be less quick to anger
And show appreciation more
And love the people in our lives
Like we've never loved before.

If we treateach other with respect,
And more often wear a smile
Remembering that this special dash
Might only last a little while.

So, when your eulogy is being read
With your life's actions to rehash
Would you be proud of the things they say
About how you spent your dash?


Keith-
I hope as you look down on us from above, you continue to inspire us to do something meaningful with our dash. As heartwrenching as this has been, in a weird way it has given us (the Union that you proudly represented) strength to come together as one. Watch over us, whisper in our ear when we are about to do something stupid, and God Bless You; we will continue the fight in your name and for your honor.
Danielle;
Know that we are always here for you; Day or Night. Even if it's just to say nothing. You are part of the TPD family forever and always.

Officer Michelle Roush
Toledo Police Department

March 11, 2007

My prayers go to the Toledo Police Dept. and to the family of Keith Dressel. God bless all of you.

Gail Drouillard
Michigan survivor (MiCops)

March 11, 2007

im really sorry 4 your loss god bless your family

jaime
neighborhood friend

March 7, 2007

My heart aches for your family. Toledo is where I grew up and where both my husbands family and my own still reside. My Father is an officer up there too; I pray for him everyday and all of his fellow defenders. All I can do is say thank you for all you have done to keep my beloved family safe; my beloved Toledo. You are a hero.

Dispatcher Sells
OSUPD

March 6, 2007

Keith,

Just looking the name "Keith", I don't rememeber if I ever called you Keith. It was Tommy Boy, Dirty Boy, Tommy, or just plain "Dressel". Thats ok. You never called me by my first name either. You always had some wise ass name for me. It has been a week since we buried you. I can't seem to get the whole thing out of my mind. The night of the shooting and the days leading to your buriel will be burned into my heart and soul forever. I will never forget that horrible day. But, I will remember you for the good things. I will remember Dressel for the digs we took at each other. The beers we shared in our younger days. Talking Michigan football. That crooked grim on your face. Your fine GQ court attire. Tommy Boy, you need not worry. We will look over your family. I still can't believe it was you. I will miss you Dirty Boy.

Detective Jim Dec
Toledo Police (friend)

March 5, 2007

Having suffered the loss of a collegue in a fatal shooting . PC Sharon Beshenivsky (Besh) in December 2005.
I would like to express my condolences to Officer Dressels family, Freinds and collegues.

Being killed in the line of duty is the ultimate price to pay, Yet as officers we know and understand this and the risks we take each day when we go to work, yet we continue regardless in our quest to serve our communities and make them a safer place to live and work.
As officers of the law we are unique in that we tend to be the ones running towards the danger and trouble when othersare running away..
This is why Keith is special and I salute him for doing the job that he chose to do , and for which he paid with his life.
May his memmories live on as a reminder to those who follow in his footsteps and provide them with encouragement to provide the best service they can.
RIP Keith
From Myself... PC 3248 Michael Fawbert
and the rest of my collegues at Bradford central police station, West yorkshire. England

Police Constable
West Yorkshire Police. England

March 5, 2007

Words cannot express how tankful I am to you and all the men and women who put on that uniform everyday, not for riches, but to attempt to make a difference. My deepest heartfelt condolences go out to your family. Everytime we are called to potentially voilent situation it is always a comfort to know the men and women of the TPD are there to ensure the innocents safety, putting their lives on the line so that complete strangers are safe. GOD BLESS AND THANK YOU.

Lieutenant Pete Scarborough
Medcorp Ambulance

March 4, 2007

Det. Dressel,
I would like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice for the citizens of Toledo. And to your family and loved ones, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy.

R.I.P.
Anonymous

Anonymous

March 4, 2007

I read this on another page for another officer, but I think it sums everything up the best. I didn't know Ofcr Dressel, but I didn't have to know the loss cuts deep and leaves wounds that can never properly heal.

This is for Keith and his family.

Letter From Heaven

To my dearest family, some things I'd like to say...
but first of all, to let you know, that I arrived okay.
I'm writing this from heaven. Here I dwell with God above.
Here, there's no more tears of sadness; here is just eternal love.

Please do not be unhappy just because I'm out of sight.
Remember that I'm with you every morning, noon and night.
That day I had to leave you when my life on earth was through,
God picked me up and hugged me and He said, "I welcome you."

It's good to have you back again; you were missed while you were gone.
As for your dearest family, they'll be here later on.
I need you here badly; you're part of my plan.
There's so much that we have to do, to help our mortal man."

God gave me a list of things, that he wished for me to do.
And foremost on the list, was to watch and care for you.
And when you lie in bed at night, the day's chores put to flight.
God and I are closest to you....in the middle of the night.

When you think of my life on earth, and all those loving years
because you are only human, they are bound to bring you tears.
But do not be afraid to cry; it does relieve the pain.
Remember there would be no flowers, unless there was some rain.

I wish that I could tell you all that God has planned.
But if I were to tell you, you wouldn't understand.
But one thing is for certain, though my life on earth is over.
I'm closer to you now, than I ever was before.

There are many rocky roads ahead of you and many hills to climb;
but together we can do it by taking one day at a time.
It was always my philosophy and I'd like it for you too...
that as you give unto the world, the world will give to you.

If you can help somebody who's in sorrow and pain,
then you can say to God at night......"My day was not in vain."
And now I am contented....that my life has been worthwhile,
knowing as I passed along the way, I made somebody smile.

So if you meet somebody who is sad and feeling low,
just lend a hand to pick him up, as on your way you go.
When you're walking down the street, and you've got me on your mind;
I'm walking in your footsteps only half a step behind.

And when it's time for you to go.... from that body to be free,
remember you're not going.....you're coming here to me.

Rest in peace Keith. Your job here is through.

Tracey Civilian Dispatcher
Novi Police

March 4, 2007

To the Family and friends of this great officer...
words cannot express the deep sadness we all feel at the loss of yet another brother.
I have not been on this site in a few weeks and it brought tears to my eyes when I saw how the numbers had increased.
I will keep all of his family in my prayers and pray that God will hold you in his arms in the long tough times ahead.
May God bless and keep you all

Ga LEO
DeKalb County

March 3, 2007

Thank you Detective Dressel and Danielle for your enormous sacrifice. The bible says that there is no greater a thing than to lay down ones life for another. The Lord has surely rewarded you in heaven Keith.

I never turn on news TV in the morning. My 4 year son and 1 year old daughter have me hooked on PBS and cartoons, but I had to watch for the school closings due to fog for my son's preschool and saw the horrible news of what had happened. I was immediately reminded why I don't like listening to the news. My heart and head sank. Tears welled and immediately thoughts turned to Daneille, as a fellow Detective's wife. I hate that our husbands patrol the ghetto. I hate the amount of ignorance on our streets! What a shame.. senseless... that's what I thought.

Our slow justice system allows the festering of anger. It would send a strong signal if that boy was charged today, found guilty tomorrow, and hanged in the city streets the next day. This City and our country should STOP tolerating lawless thugs that shoot Police Officers! That is strong I know, but and eye for an eye...that is how the Lord designed it.

My thoughts continue to be with all officers and their family. Our most sincere condolences to all that new Officer Dressel and his family.

Sincerely, Mrs. Nicklas Cook, Perrysburg Police Detective

Wife
Perrysburg Police Department

March 3, 2007

Keith,
Shortly after your death, I had the honor of meeting with Danielle to inform her that an officer would be posted outside your house around the clock for the next several days, in attempt to help her feel safe. I had such a difficult time talking to her as she stood so strong, while I choked on every word. In effort to change the mood, I told Danielle a story of a day several years ago when you and I were working and stopped by your house. You proudly walked me around the property telling me of all the plans you had for your new house, unaware of how proud you would later be, making it a home for your family. I told Danielle that I made an offer to buy your Monte Carlo SS that day, but you refused, saying you were fixing it up yourself. That same car is still sitting in your driveway, unfinished. Danielle laughed saying, "Sean, look around, Keith was the master of starting many jobs, while rarely ever finishing", pointing out a few other examples.

As I prepared to leave for work the following day, I went down to hug and kiss my children good-bye, as was my routine, but now meant more than ever. My 4 yr. old daughter asked me if I was sad because my friend had died. I said that I was very sad. She then said, "It's o.k. daddy, you can just see him again when you get to work." As tears filled my eyes, I explained to her that people are sad when someone dies, because they know they will never see them again.

Several days have passed since your difficult, emotional funeral. In that time I've been able to read the many thoughts, prayers, and poems written in your memory, allowing me to reflect on those earlier moments with my daughter and your wife.

I realize now that in my daughter's pure, innocent heart she somehow knows what I've always wanted to believe; That, although I won't see you at work tomorrow, I will indeed see you again. And when I do, you will tell me that after your death, you were able to rest in peace, seeing that you had hundreds of friends and family who were there to finish the job that you had started, caring for your wife and raising your children. And knowing that there were thousands of officers throughout this great country, willing to finish your job of protecting the streets of our cities, so that others could sleep safe at night.

Until we meet again,
Jonesy

Sgt. S. Jones
Toledo Police

March 3, 2007

My Brother in Blue

You died doing what you loved. Your family and friends miss you so much. To your wife and kids, know that he loved you. He would have walked through fire for you and He was a brave man. I hope that this never happens again anywhere but it will.

I salute all the families who have gone through this hell. They are the true victims of a senseless act as this. The strength of our wives and children is something that cannot be measured. I don't know any of you but then I guess I do. You are the true heroes that keep us going everyday. You are the ones who love us and support us. You are the ones who listen to the complaints about cops and how they are always abusing people.

It is to you Danielle that I send support and love. I cannot even imagine what you are going through. Hang in there Sister.

Chris

Sgt. Chris Chernock
South Sioux City PD

March 3, 2007

Keith,
I've been thinking about what to write in your reflection for days now. I hadn't spoken with you quite as much since I left the Task Force but I did enjoy the times when you ended up at the Ex***** Motel after following someone out here after a buy. It was kinda like old times for me. When we did talk it was usually a laugh fest. I wanted to appologize to your parents, brother and Danielle. I practiced what I was going to say to them over and over and over in my head but when Amanda and I met them on Sunday I just couldn't get the words out. I wanted to tell them that I had the privilege to work with you for a few years, that you were always there to help me out when I needed it and that you were my friend. I hope they understand. I'm just sorry that I wasn't there to help you out after all of the help you gave me over the years. I'll keep your family in my prayers and I need just one more favor. Keep an eye out for us while were fighting the fight. Take care brother. I'll miss ya.

Sgt. Doug Hubaker
Northwood Police Department

March 2, 2007

I didn't know Dressel. I am very sorry for your lost. Now I hope someone works on this city. There is to much crime here in Toledo. Especially in the North end. I don't know if I should say this, but I'll say it anyway, I hope the guys that shot dressel get what they deserve.

Vickie Stults
US citizen

March 2, 2007

Keith,
I will miss you, Neil, and Scotty beating up on and playing tricks on me. It might have been about 20 years since my last beating, but, nevertheless, I remember them as if is were today. I, like everyone else, am still in shock and disbelief, and it's hard to think that you're not here with us anymore. But I KNOW that you are with us in our hearts, and keeping an eye on everyone down here. Thanks for being an awesome cousin, and at times, more like a big brother. Thanks for letting me hang all over you, and play in your room even though Scotty wanted his "lil sister" outta there. Anyways, thanks for just being you. You loved your family, your job, and your life, and may we all be lucky enough to find that kind of happiness in all aspects of our own lives. Danielle is in good hands, she is stuck with us now! Noah looks just like you, everytime I look at him, its like looking at you. Well, buddy, we miss you, and your sense of humor, and we will always have you in our minds and hearts. You are loved, Keith, by all who knew you, and especially, myself. See you when we get there, say hi to Cider for me.

Holly 'Hot Wheels' Dressel
Another Proud Cousin

March 2, 2007

Keith,
We were not close friends, but I knew you in my dealings with you and seeing you coming into court carrying Noah. It has taken me sometime to actually sit down and write this I think mainly out of fear. We all know coming into this job that we may have to make that supreme sacrifice, but we never expect it is going to be us or anybody close to us. I was the first crew on the scene that night and I cant tell you the emotions that raced through me as I watched you on the sidewalk at my feet. That image will be etched in my mind forever. I do apologize to you that I began to place blame on everything I could including you I just couldn't figure out why you did not fight to stay alive as we are taught in the Academy....never give up. I later found out that you did fight even with a fatal wound then I blamed myself for not doing more for you even though nobody could have done anything . To Danielle, the rest of the Dressel family, and the officers that were working with Keith that night I want to say that I am sorry that I did not have the courage to look you in the face or talk to you on the day of the funeral because I just did not know what to say to you, I did not know what words would help if any could. I have written the below poem for Keith and I hope this helps to explain the feelings that we all share for him.

Brother In Blue

The voice over the radio did cause a fright,
there was a struggle, there was a fight.
A shot rang out for all to hear,
a sound that to many brought a sense of fear.
You knelt on the sidewalk moaning in pain,
something that god would never let you suffer again.
Your brothers and sisters scoured the area for the perp,
we wondered how any person could cause this hurt.
Why would this happen police are not supposed to cry,
why would this happen police are not supposed to die.
The rough streets remained quiet for so many days,
it is amazing how you touched people in so many ways.
Our previous guardian stood watch for almost 37 years,
and now it is your turn to embrace us when we shed tears.
The angels took a good man that cold eerie night,
and with dawn came a brand new sense of light.
Your badge hung around your neck so true,
we are always proud to call you our brother in blue.

Police Officer Shawn Parra
Toledo Police Department

March 2, 2007

Keith, I just want to tell you how honored I am to have served with you all of these years. You and I have worked the night shift for a long time and although I used to complain, I now wish I could still be booking prisoners into the jail for you. I speak for everyone when I say that I would give anything to have you back. You served this community well and will be greatly missed. I only hope you were looking down and saw how this community came together to honor you. Your family will be taken care of. Take care up there "Dres", we miss you.

Ptlm. Todd Babcock
Toledo Police Dept.

March 2, 2007

I have been thinking about you and your family since I heard the tragic news on TV regarding your loved one. You are all in my thoughts and prayers during this extremely difficult time. I pray that you find some strength in knowing he is a hero and he was doing the "right thing," as my father always said. I am very sorry for your loss and I will keep you in my prayers. God be with you. Thank you for your service Det Dressel, God speed.

Tomya Allen
Daughter of fallen officer, Det Sgt Cochran, EOW 1/26/05

March 2, 2007

I never had the pleasure to meet Keith, but I will always remember him. I was dispatching that night and heard those words that no one ever wants to hear. Not a day goes by that I don't cry and recall that tragic night. My deepest sympathies to his family and the Toledo Police Department. That night we lost one of our best, and I pray that we never have to go through this again.

Kristen Montrie, Civilian
Toledo Police Department

March 2, 2007

Hi. just wanted to give my condolences to the Dressel family and the friends and co-workers of Keith. I live in Bedford and even though i did'nt know the family personally my heart goes out to them. my thoughts and prayers are with them.

darlene appling
ciitizen

March 2, 2007

My Keith,
I am missing you so much. Sleeping at night is now difficult, because I do not feel safe anymore. I have always thought that you could be at my side anytime when I was afraid or needed you. You and I always had a special relationship and you were "My Keith". I remember when you were little and would give that "shi- eatin" grin. There was no-way I could be mad. Yes, you did get spankings when you were little, but sometimes you needed those. Maybe that is why you grew up to be such an upstanding man. We were always so proud of you. I remember how we couldn't get you outside to play. You read all of the time. We finally said get out there, play in that snow, and get some fresh air. We found you sitting on a cement block, reading a book, under the drier vent. Danielle told me she found you outside reading the paper under the drier vent. The Civil War was always your love. I bet you knew more about that war than anyone, just from reading.

I couldn't find the picture of you playing with your trucks and tractors in the big sandpile. There you were digging and Cider our Setter digging, and both of you had your rear ends up in the air.

The pictures of you riding the dirt bikes, go=karts, and golf cart around the place are also somewhere. I think that your "organization" skills came from me. Your friends told me about your desk.

At the funeral home I think about that picture where I was knocking on your vest. I thought that it would protect you. How wrong I was. When people would ask me if I was worried about you, I would say yes, but more so knowing that you didn't wear your vest while undercover. I also said that life cannot be lived with worry and that you loved what you did.

When I heard that you were shot, I thought in the leg or arm. There is no way anyone would hurt My Keith. I had no idea it was fatal. I din't understand what dad was telling me at first. Then I cried, "Not My Keith."

Your friends have been so wonderful to dad and me. We have lost a son, but have gained a new family.

You came to me Wed. night and told me to get up, put on dad's robe, get the prayer blanket that I received from church, and write a letter to the community. I did it and the words came. For days I have been thinking about it, procrastinating about it, but you came to me and guided me. There is no way I can thank your city for all that they have done.

Noah and Syd will be taken care of and loved. I told Danielle that she is ours and cannot ever leave this family. (Possibly Deer in the Headlights look.) We are here for her and love her. All is taken care of, so please rest in peace.
Mom

Larraine Dressel
mom

March 2, 2007

Rest in peace, you are a hero and godspeed

Ofc McCord
BPD NM

March 1, 2007