Family, Friends & Fellow Officers Remember...

I just read the reflection you left for Mike Scarbrough. It is wonderful that you can reach out to another family while you are still expierencing so much grief. I have come to realize what a close community all the police officers are and it makes me proud. Denise is a wonderful person and she is doing a great job of carrying on like Mike would have wanted. Her children are very lucky to have a mom like her. Please know that you and your family are in our thoughts and prayers. We will pray for your son's wife and his son. I'm sure they are receiving much support from family and your "family in blue". God bless you all.

jps
friends of fallen officer Michael Scarbrough, eow 2/09/05

August 25, 2005

Dear Larry and Family,
One of my daughters came in to work the other day and said mom have you read Matt's page today? I said no and immediately got on it to see what was new. Your mom had written a precious letter to us. I know all of you together in heaven know how all of us still down here love to read a new posting. For the longest time I thought nobody understands the agonizing pain, the screaming pain of having to live without these beautiful, wonderful people who have been ripped out of our lives.....and for some reason they ARE the BEST. But the more I go to different pages for Matthew's brothers and sisters in blue I finally am coming to realize there ARE people who do understand. In some way there is a measure of comfort to be found in that. It was your mom's reflection for Matthew that finally gave me the push I needed to start reaching out to other families in the same way; to repay the honor and gratitude that we feel every time we read a new posting. Matthew is and was the light of our lives as I can tell you are to your family. I knew my son loved what he did but I never thought he would lose his life doing it. Mainly because he always said, "Mom, I'll be ok." And I believed him. But you never know from one second to the next, as we have all found out, and are lives are never the same. From now until we are reunited with him in eternity we will honor him and his profession and all that walk the same walk--his brothers and sisters in blue. God bless you and your family and your sacrifice for all of us.
Love,
Matt's Mom Forever

Linda Rittenhouse
Mother of Officer Jesse Matthew Rittenhouse E.O.W. 9/16/04

August 25, 2005

To Officer Larry Lasater's Wife, Family and Pittsburg Police Department,
I wanted to send a thank you to Ms. Phyllis Loya whom recently left a reflection on my husband's web site. I visit my husband's website daily and it is very nice to know when other survivors' visit his website as well. I am so sorry for your loss. I see that you have just passed the four month marker since Larry's EOW date. I will say a prayer for you as you endure your grief journey.

To Officer Lasater's Wife,
It is a long lonely road that we walk as police widows. No one person will know your exact pain because everyone's relationship with their officer was so individual and beautiful. I hope to meet you this year in D.C., as I will be attending National Police Week once again. Please contact Southern CA Concerns Of Police Survivors Chapter for my information if you would like to talk sometime. Although it is never an easy road that we walk, please know that you never have to walk it alone. I remember feeling so alone after my husband was shot and killed in the line of duty. We were only married seven short months before he was killed on December 13, 2003.
I will say a prayer for you and your family daily.
Sincerely,

Juli Verkler
Widow of Ptlm. Bryan S. Verkler EOW 12/13/03

August 25, 2005

I took you for granted. I just assumed that you'd always be here, that I would always have you here to love and protect me and the baby. How can it be that 4 months have passed already? It seems like yesterday that you learned that you were going to be a daddy. What an amazing day. I'll never forget the look on your face.

Cody's getting even cuter. I see glimpses of you when I look at him. He has your eyes, hairline and skinny little legs. It's so sad that he's going to miss out on having such a great daddy and I'm going to miss out on seeing the two of you together.

Love you

August 25, 2005

Dear Phyllis Loya, Family & Police Dept of Officer Lasater:
Thank you for your heartfelt message to my family regarding the passing of my husband, Tom Cochran. I too have read the many messages left to your family & have come to realize that for whatever reason, God is taking our finest. It is certainly a call I never expected to get nor did I ever know 'this world existed'. The COPS family has proven to be an AMAZING support group & you will well find comfort in their support offered. I very much appreciate your acknowledgement in my daughter, Jessica's writings to her dad. She does have a "gift" & seems to express herself best when writing on ODMP. Much like me, I think she feels that's a time when she can actually talk to 'him'. She is only 13 & misses him terribly as does my 17 yr old son who just this week began his SR. year. They both grieve very privately & I 'thank you' as I don't get to read but a few at a time & am sorry to say I was unaware that my daughter was writing to other families...It makes me even more proud of her! It doesn't get any easier.
I will say to YOU Mrs. Loya, that the only thing worse than the PAIN I feel in losing my husband would be if God forbid, something happened to my kids.
I am a firm believer that 'no parent' should outlive their children & can in no way relate to the pain you must feel....mixed with such pride in your son's great accomplishments. I will pray for you, his family & especially your new grandchild, his son, who will have to rely on loving grandparents such as yourself to teach him what a GREAT Dad he has. Somehow in his heart, I believe he will already know, but needs to hear it none the less. I too am so sorry for your loss & already know what a special person you are by taking the time to write us your message. My husbands accident still seems like yesterday & my 'grief' is best described as the worst PAIN in my chest I have ever felt. I hope to have a chance to meet you & your family @ Police Memorial Week in Washington, DC in May 2006 when your son will be honored along with my husband.
I will live MY life honoring Tom's as you are correct in that he truly was VERY MUCH loved & respected in our community. It is a GREAT LOSS for both our families but it's touching messages such as yours that I look forward to at the end of a day, & it somehow gets me to the next. God Bless you & God Bless your family.
Sincerely,
Jo'Nee Cochran
Spouse of Det/Sgt Tom Cochran
EOW: 1/26/05 - Lawrenceburg, IN PD

Jo'Nee Cochran-Spouse/Tom Cochran
Lawrenceburg PD, IN - EOW 1-26-05

August 24, 2005

I never knew there were so many HEROS that gave their lives protecting others until I lost a very good friend in June Deputy George Griffin in Arkansas,that accident which I was witness to changed our lives forever just as the tragic death of Officer Lasater has changed yours.please know that even though we are states apart and dont "personally" know each other Mrs.Phyllis,Officer Lasaters wife,and son know we are thinking of you and praying for your families daily.

Tonia Hale Paramedic and wife of Lt.Norman Hale White County Sheriffs Dept.

Tonia Hale Paramedic

August 24, 2005

I heard of your death when it occured. I couldn't beleive it and I give the family my sympthoy. We recently lost an officer also a good friend of mine and I realized how hard it really is and how it affects not only the department but the community law enforcement and residential but also the family. Rest in peace my fellow brother in blue

San Leandro Police

August 24, 2005

I want to share my condolences to JoAnne, Cody and Phyllis. As Lt's in 29 Palms, Larry and I were room mates and became close friends. Sadly, we lost touch when Larry left the Corps and I moved to Japan.

It was just a few days ago I was told of Larry's passing. Over these last few days I have reflected on the positive impact that Larry had on myself and my wife. His daily enthusiasm for life and the love of his country could not be diminished even through hardship.

Larry will maintain a high place of honor with me and my family. I will miss him.

Maj Scott R Johnson
USMC

August 24, 2005

Today I saw a friend who next week begins her next school term as a teacher. She has devoted 40 years to teaching. The way you lived your life and your death made such an impact on her that this is her last year of teaching. She is leaving the classroom but not to retire. Your legacy has prompted her to enter divinity school.
You continue to lead by example and even in death, you are an inspiration. Eternally loving you.

August 23, 2005

To Mrs. Phyllis Loya and all the family of Officer Lasater I would like to say I'm sorry for your loss as well and thank you for leaving the kind words on Keith's refection page. You don't know how much it means to me to see new postings on it. You were right, Mrs. Loya, Keith was a special person as I am sure your son was; as well as all of the fallen heros on this website. I thank God that Keuth was not shot to death, and at the same time wish that it never had happened to your son or any other officer. I could not imagine anyone deliberily taking Keith's life. Words cannot express my sorrow I feel for you and your family. Please let James know that he is not alone, that we are now the club that no one wants to join together. I hope he is going to the siblings retreat that COPS will be having next month in Missouri. I would like to meet him and let him know that I'm praying for him. I also hope your will be attending the parents retreat at the end of next month. My parents will be there and I'm sure they would love to meet you. Please let James know that the way I get through my pain is have faith in Jesus to see through on a daily basis and I keep his memory alive by remembering the good times, sharing stories, responding to posts on this webpage, and praying for others who are in the same situation. Keith was my only brother. I had no sisters. I will never get over the loss, as I am sure James will never get over his loss either, but believe me trusting Jesus really does make the difference! If ever I can do anything for you and your family, please let me know. If James ever needs a friend to talk to, I will be more than happen to talk and listen - I can relate. I can be reached through the head of the South Carolina COPS director, Beverly Coats or you can leave contact information of Keith's webpage. May God bless you all.

Kevin Cannon
Brother of Keith Cannon EOW 5/4/05

August 22, 2005

You'll never be forgotten. You touched more lives in your 35 years than most people do in their lifetime. You really lived life to the fullest. Your ambition was amazing. I can only imagine what you would have done if your life wasn't cut short. You did almost everything that you wanted. The only thing you didn't get to do is to be a father. That is heartbreaking. What an amazing dad you would have been.

August 21, 2005

As the sun sets on us we again lose another officer. A man that stood strong willing to protect us as we sleep. A man that had compassion when children needed kindness. A man that has a family. How can we as simple men and women express our loss of a brother? How can we ever begin to show our hurt for his family. All we can say is that we will not let them beat us down. When it is our time to replace our badge upon our chest and step out into the night we will remember men like Larry Lasater. And so many others that fall. We owe it to them and to their love ones.

Officer Brett A.Bruner

August 20, 2005

As I read the reflections your friends and family have left you it brings tears to my eyes. I didn't know you, but we as law enforcement care about one another. It's quite obvious that a great guy is now looking over his loved ones from the heavens above. I had a partner that attended a SWAT School shortly before your death; he thought very highly of you after spending a short time with you. God bless you and your family; rest in peace brother.

Detective Doug Sullivan
Fresno County Sheriff's Dept.

August 19, 2005

I miss you

August 19, 2005

Seeing your headstone yesterday was so hard for James. He loved his little brother so much. The reality of seeing your name and your pictures made the finality of it sink in for him, and it was too much for him to bear. He has cried a river of tears for you since that awful night of April 23rd. It was always the two of you, and so it will be forever more in his heart and mine. He called both of your grandmothers and your Uncle Ron and read them the inscription. His agony was hard to see. Loving you forever and a day.

August 18, 2005

Today your headstone was placed on your grave. Jo Ann did such a beautiful job designing it and it turned out in your words "awesome". It was hard because none of us ever envisioned standing over your grave admiring your headstone. If I could have traded places with you, you know that I would have instantly done it. At the same time, I know you would gladly have given your life for the safety of any of us that were there this morning. I think it is a real tribute to your character that you are so loved by your in-laws. Your academy motto that Pride is Forever is so true. We will always be so proud of you, and nothing can ever diminish the love we have for you.
Loving you always until we are together again.

August 17, 2005

Ms. Loya,

I just wanted to thank you for the reflection you left for Sgt. Roger Motley, EOW 10/04/1993. Please know that all of us who carry a badge with honor are part of an extended family that stretches from coast to coast. Each time one of our brothers or sisters are taken from us, a part of each of us goes with them.

I was a young deputy sheriff finishing college when Sgt. Motley was murdered. I responded to the scene that day in October 1993 and will forever be haunted by what I observed. I am also haunted by the memories of transporting his murderers to and from court and having to look into Lyon's eyes each time. I had never stood in the presence of such evil. Although I know it will never bring Roger back, I too am glad that justice was finally served last week.

I was also there the day Larry's life was honored in Concord. Although I did not know him, I knew that I had to be there. I shed tears with everyone as you spoke, as his best friends talked of Larry's life and addressed Cody, as your other son spoke of his wonderful brother. There was no mistaking that not only was Larry a hero, he was a great friend, husband, son, brother, Marine, and Police Officer. I wish I could have had the honor of knowing him. His life is an example of how we should all strive to live.

May God Bless you, Jo Ann, Cody, all of your family, and the men and women of the Pittsburg Police Department.

Mike, Special Agent
FBI

August 16, 2005

The credit belongs to the one who is actually in the arena, whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood, who strives valiantly, who errs and comes short again and again, who knows the great devotions, and spends himself in a worthy cause, who at best knows in the end the triumph of high achievement, and who at the worst, if they fail, at least fails while daring greatly. So that their place shall never be with those cold and timid souls who know neither victory nor defeat.

Terry Donovan
spouse of Amy Lynn Donovan Austin P.D. E.O.W. 31 Oct 2004
2005-05-10

August 13, 2005

I am missing you so much today, but then I miss you every minute of every day. Losing you was like losing a big chunk of my heart. Those fatal shots also killed a part of everyone who knew you and cared about you. Everyone is trying to be strong for each other. I look at my note from you that was meant to strengthen me during a time of trouble and it says, "Keep your chin up". And I am trying, Lar, but my heart is breaking. You have to know how we all love you. JoAnn and Cody look so beautiful together and I scream inside at the unfairness of you not being there with them...with us. Please watch over us.

August 13, 2005

Larry, we had such a nice evening with little Cody last night. I took him to football practice to watch his big cousins, Joseph & Vincent practice. He loves being wheeled across the grass in his stroller - we say he's 'four-wheeling'. The bumpier the ground, the happier he is! He's your son - he likes the adventure. The boys love pushing him around in his stroller. Then, after practice, we went to the sporting goods store. Joseph & Vincent wanted to buy him his first football. Vincent insisted we buy one in 49'er colors; Joseph insisted we buy one in Raider colors.... The boys finally agreed since they could not agree, that they should scratch the football idea and buy Cody a soccer ball, so, Cody got his first soccer ball last night! Cody is such a good baby. You would be so proud of him. He already holds his head up so well! He's such a joy to have around. I love being his auntie! Joseph and Vincent have been working all week on 'your' football team. They are going to make your picks this year for your fantasicy football team. They are actually working together on this... They want you to have the best team ever! They know you loved picking your team. Jo Ann is going to take the boys this Saturday to make the picks with all the other officers. I'm sure you will be there with everyone in spirt.
Forever in our hearts,
The Ferrante's

L.Ferrante
Sister-in-Law

August 9, 2005

Your son is so adorable. You would be so happy right now, we all would. I can't help but torture myself with thoughts of what should have been.

Still missing you and loving you. I will mourn you forever.

August 9, 2005

Our family misses you terribly. You are in our thoughts and prayers every minute of every day. The boys pray at night and talk to you. I hope you can hear them. Daniel sings songs about his fallen hero. Nicholas wants to play basketball at North Carolina State to honor his favorite uncle. Dominic talks about you and how sad he is that you are in heaven. We are all so happy to have Cody in our lives as a constant reminder of you. We will never forget you, brother, uncle, friend.

D. Lucido

August 6, 2005

Time does not heal all wounds.... Sometimes time makes wounds hurt more and more.... Larry, your family misses you more and more each day. I know you live on in your beautiful, beautiful, BEAUTIFUL baby boy, Cody. He is such a special gift from God and you. We all treasure him. He looks like his wonderful father. I see you in your wonderful nephews. They miss you terribly.... I know they will honor you forever by striving to become like the wonderful man you were and the honorable adults you would have expected them to become. Vincent tries to run fast like you, Joseph tries to take care of Cody. They both promise to teach him about you and your love of life and all that is good. They also promise to teach him all that they know about sports, just like you would have done. Our entire family is so devastated by your death. I see no end to our pain. Everyday without you is just a further reminder of how much you were a part of our lives... I know you are in a very special place in heaven. In our hearts forever, The Ferrante's

L.Ferrante

August 5, 2005

To the Lasater family, loved ones and the Pittsburg PD family,

As we at the San Leandro Police Dept mourn the loss of our officer, Dan Niemi EOW 07-25-05, my heart goes out to you all over again. I was shocked, sad and angry when I first heard of your loss back in April. I, like so many others who had never actually met Larry, wept as I watched the news feeling outraged that some crook could take the life of a hero in blue. Until July 25th I could only imagine the depth of your loss and grief. Unfortunately I now know firsthand.

I had never even heard of this website until doing a search on Dan Niemi's name. It was so touching to see a reflection from Jo Ann Lasater, Larry's wife. Thank you for your kind words. You've honored both Larry and Dan's memory by continuing to support your family in blue. My thoughts and prayers continue to be with your family. May Larry's son always be reminded that his father was a true hero.

Dispatcher
San Leandro Police

August 5, 2005

I miss you with all my heart. I'll always love you and will forever miss your sense of humor, your smile and your love of life. You're my hero and my best friend. Your son will know what a remarkable man you are. All my love, all my life...

August 3, 2005