Family, Friends & Fellow Officers Remember...

Officer Kolodziej,
On today, the 17th anniversary of your death I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice for the citizens of Phoenix. And to your family and loved ones, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy.

R.I.P.
Anonymous

Anonymous

September 4, 2008

Hey Pop~
Well it has been 17 years today. Hard to believe it has been that long. I miss you terribly, and regret that time was stolen from us. I know that you are shining down on us and keeping up to date with everyone, but it is not the same. It's funny that when your name is mentioned to the little ones of the family, they get a twinkle in their eye; their grandpa was a hero. My Dad the hero. Everyone who talks about you says the most wonderful things, it brings me just a little closer to you. Ok, enough sappy stuff, I need to get back to work. Just know that you are always in my heart and part of my being. Love Always, Katie :~)

Katie Kolodziej-Delafield
Daughter

September 4, 2008

God's Police Department in heaven gained an oustanding and loving officer with your reassignment there. You are greatly missed by all your brothers and sisters working here carrying on in your memory. As they go about serving God's children here they constantly extoll your honor and your dedication to the job. Know that your family is loved and cared for just as Jesus loves and cares for you now. We envy your new working conditions, no more evil forces to face, only the loving touch of God in your heart. Rest in peace brother.
In Christ, Tom Bradley Arizona State Chaplain FOP

Tom Bradley, Retired
Phoenix AZ PD

August 23, 2008

miiiss you! i love you i wish i could of seen you! =] hope your having a good tiiiime!!! love your grandson.conrad

conrad kolodziej
grandson

July 30, 2008

I want to thank all of you who leave such wonderful stories for me and my family to read. Dad was killed when I was only 16 and now at 32 I long to hear stories of who he was outside of his fatherly personality. If anyone who knew Dad ever wants to reminisce, I am in the book, please look me up. You are my link to him. Thank you to all of the men and women in blue who continue to fight the good fight. Love, Katie (Len's Daughter)

Katie Delafield
Daughter

July 9, 2008

Leonard was my partner for many years. When Phoenix had the Officer II and III program Len was the II and I was the III on the squad. We drank more than a few cups of coffee and cold beers over the years.

Leonard usually worked the next beat over from mine and double squad days we usually rode together. He always wanted to go to the same little hole in the wall joints for coffee and lunch. Munch-A-Bagel in the morning and the little hambuger joint for lunch.. Hated it but Leonard had a great time..

Leonard carried a nickle plate Colt Python. When I worked the range at the station he would come in with that gun to take part in practice or qualification. Of course I'd have to inspect it. I always told him that I'd give him $50 for the weapon. I'd show him, Look, the cylinder doesn't even turn the right way. He would make remarks as to my ancestory and take the gun back with a great big grin.

I was retired when Leonard was murdered. He was riding my beat. I couldn't believe that Leaonard was dead. We had so many times talked about retirement and what we were going to do. But it all came roaring to reality when I went to the viewing. I was very happy to see all the old squad members and friends there. We sat and remembered the little things all evening.

Leonard, I still miss you. I wish you were still here to kid about that old Colt. Save a cup of coffee for me when I come visiting..

Bill Noe, 1673
Phoenix PD Ret

June 8, 2008

I was in the Phoenix police academy when this occurred. I remember how the officers and staff were so shaken and things there just came to a halt. I graduated a week or so later and received my badge with a black band on it in Ofc. Kolodziej's honor. I'll never forget that. Rest in Peace sir.

Sgt. Mike Jennings, Tucson Police Dept.

Sgt. Michael Jennings
Tucson Police Dept.

June 8, 2008

We miss You brother,thanks for making this Dept what it is,The best in Arizona! No one will say different that knows law enforcement in the State.

Officer
Phoenix PD Central City

May 16, 2008

Hey there Pop!
I was in Washington DC on your birthday. Stopped by the wall to see your name for the third time on April 3rd (pops birthday). I've said it before and I'll say it again, I am so proud to be your daughter. Though you were taken from us, I stand a little taller knowing that the nation recognizes your sacrifice and honors your name. "In valor there is hope" and "The wicked flee when no man pursueth but the righteous are bold as a lion" You are my hero and in my heart you will live forever!
Love Always~
Katie

Katie
Daughter

April 16, 2008

wishing you a Merry Christmas in Heaven Leonard, we're thinking about you during this holiday season.
-A BROTHER IN BLUE

Phoenix Police

December 8, 2007

To Officer Kolodziej, his family, and friends. My heart goes out to all of you. I am so glad that I found this web site. I am the brother of Jane Finney, the other person that was killed on that horrible day of Sept. 4, 1991. I remember it like it was yesterday and for some reason this year has been harder even though it has been 16 years. While I did not know Officer Leonard Kolodziej, I find comfort in sharing his memories you have all sent. May God bless him as well as his family. Thank you for allowing me to join in his memory. And, thank you Officer Kolodziej for your honorable service as a Phoenix Police Officer. Gregg Finney

Gregg Finney

September 29, 2007

I think of you often my old friend but never more clearly than on a day like this. I miss our midnight coffee runs after shift. Bobbe always seemed to understand how special those nights were. But most of all I miss you. I hope we meet again one day.

Carl
Friend

September 19, 2007

To the Kolodziej family: My deepest sympathy to you and greatest respect for Leonard. You are never alone. Please reach out to me anytime for anything that you need.

Sgt. Shawn R. Hanson
Phoenix Police Department

September 18, 2007

Sixteen long years since I felt your hand in mine. The kids all called me this morning. We miss you - even though we feel your presence - it's not a big hug. Thank you, beloved, for watching out for us. Thank you for hearing me when I speak. Love, Bobbe

Bobbe Kolodziej
Widow

September 4, 2007

Hey Pop~
It has been 16 years today since we have been without you. This year is particularly hard for me because I have had you out of my life as long as you were in it. Time may fly but the pain still remains. I am so proud to be your daughter and give thanks to all the brother in blue. I love and miss you terribly. Love Always, Katie :~)

Katie Kolodziej
Daughter

September 4, 2007

"The Badge"
He starts his shift each day
To respond to calls unknown.
He drives a marked patrol car.
A police officer he is known.
He's paid by the citizens' taxes
To make it safe on the streets.
But he usually has a second job
'Cause a waitress has his salary beat.
Now he doesn't know a holiday
'Cause he works all year round.
And when Thanksgiving and Christmas finally arrive
At his home he cannot be found.
He's cursed and assaulted often,
The one whos blood runs blue.
He seldom ever gets a thanks,
To some he's just a fool.
His friends are always other cops
'Cause people just don't understand
That underneath his badge and gun,
He's just another man.
He knows there might not be a tomorrow
In this world of drugs and crime.
And he gets so mad at the court system
'Cause the crooks don't get any time.
And each day when he leaves for work,
He prays to God above.
Please bring me home after my shift
So I can see the ones I love.
But tonight he stops a speeding car,
He's alone down this ole' highway.
It's just a little traffic infraction.
He does it everyday.
Well, he walks up to the driver's window,
And his badge is shining bright.
He asked the guy for a driver's license,
When a shot rang through the night.
Yes, the bullet hit its mark,
Striking the officer in the chest.
But the Department's budget didn't buy
Each officer a bullet-proof vest.
So he lay on the ground bleeding.
His blood wasn't blue - His blood was red.
And briefly he thought of his loved ones
'Cause in a moment the officer was dead.
In the news they told the story
Of how this officer had died.
And some who listened cared less,
But those who loved him cried.
Well, they buried him in uniform
With his badge pinned on his chest.
He even had his revolver,
He died doing his best.
Written By:
David L. Bell
Sergeant
Richland County Sheriff's Department
Columbia, South Carolina
Used with Special Permission of the Author
Copyright © 1999 - All Rights Reserved
and may not be duplicated without permission

Investigator David L Bell
Richland County Sheriff's Dept., Columbia, SC

July 26, 2007

YOU ARE A HERO TO MANY, MANY PEOPLE AND WILL ALWAYS BE REMEMBERED AS ONE OF THE MOST HONORABLE PEOPLE I HAVE EVER MET OR KNOWN. YOU ARE IN MY THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS EVERY DAY.

DEPUTY JOHN KOLE
MOHAVE COUNTY SHERIFF'S OFFICE

May 8, 2007

Pop~ You are and will forever be my Hero. I am proud to be your daughter. Thank you for always watching out for us. Love and miss you Pop,

Love Katie
P.S. Take care of Tom!

Katie
Daughter

May 5, 2007

Rest in Peace, Officer Kolodziej. Your sacrifice is not forgotten.

Officer 11169

March 15, 2007

Officer Kolodziej,
On the fifteenth anniversary of your senseless murder I just want you and your loved ones to know that you are greatly missed and your dedication and sevice to the city of Arzona never forgotten. Rest in Peace Sir.

Officer Flynn
Cambridge Police Dept.

September 4, 2006

We think of you and your family during these holidays, and offer thoughts and prayers as you celebrate without your loved one. Cherish the memories of the past and be open to new ones with your loved ones and friends. Your loved one will never be forgotten and always honored for their sacrifice.

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

Lisa Schultz
Widow of Don Schultz
E.O.W. 05-12-03

Co-Founders of Survivor Help Network

November 29, 2005

Leonard:
As a friend I miss you and respect you and the men in blue. God speed my friend and rest with the Lord.
Neil

Neil Miller

May 13, 2005

ALWAYS IN OUR THOUGHTS AND NEVER FAR BEHIND. SK-

September 16, 2004

Leonard, YOU are the hero. You will be loved and remembered and honored, for time out of mind.
Love, Bobbe

May 30, 2004

Rest in Peace brother Leonard, you are a true hero and will not be forgotten.


Son of G. Truman Wortham EOW 7/15/73

Assistant Chief Carl Wortham
Sand Springs Police Dept. Okla

September 18, 2003