Family, Friends & Fellow Officers Remember...

It's only been 2 months since you have been taken from us. So much has changed. Your birthday came and we placed flowers on your grave.Such a lovely plot. It has a heavenly view that you always loved. Lot's of tall trees and green grass. And when the sun is low there is a magnificent glow. I've had a candle burning for you every day. We have been so proud of you. You grew up to be a better man than most. We always knew that you are a special person, someone who cared about us all. You went out of your way for us so many, many times. You were tireless it seemed. I can't tell you why it happened. I can only say that you should not feel embarrassed or ashamed for us by the reason that caused you to leave. You did all you could. I know you were cautious and careful. But, Bubba we just don't know what evil learks in the hearts and minds of cowardly souls. Those individuals were who you protected us all from.You were off duty at the time the call came in, but you went anyway. That in itself is testimony to your strength and character. You wore you heart like it was a badge of honor. But then again it was, wasn't it? You wouldn't of had it any other way. I know.

Your name was added to a Memorial in your home town the other day. Right on the left side, second name from the top.There is a bronze statue of a Deputy leading his saddled horse by the reins towards the opening of the Wall of Honor that so many of your brave brethren have been placed. I know you would love that for you were a country boy at heart. There are other memorials and dedications that we will be traveling to. So many places and sights that we shall see together. For wherever we go, So shall you. We take you with us in our hearts and minds. I've left a poem for you that someone has written about you.Till we are able to meet and embrace on the other side Dear Sweet Bubba..

With Loving Devotion from your Brother and Family,

Tommy

Tommy
Brother

This time last year the whole family was in D.C. for Police Week. Your death has changed all of our lives so much. There isn't a day that goes by that we don't miss you, your laugh and your willingness to help anyone and everyone. We have tried to help others that have experienced the loss we have. We are helping to set up a COPS South/Central Texas Chapter. There have been so many other Texas Lawmen that have died in last few years and months. Your Sister, Sherlynn, stared volunteering at the Sheriff's Association of Texas, to look after you name on the Lost Lawmen Memorial there. Now she works full time for them. I guess she just needed to be closer to you. Your oldest Nephew Jason is graduating from High School. He and Jared miss you so. Jason wrote a poem about you called "SUPERMAN". He qualified to go to the National Poetry Slam in Michigan with it and it continues to be a real insiration to all that get a chance to see him perform it. Your name and the names of 228 other peace officers were added to the Texas Peace Officers Memorial this week. We will attend a candlelight ceremony on Thursday evening and the dedication on Friday at the Capital in Austin. We will not forget you and the other brave officers of the world. We know you continue to look after us. THANKS Larry!

Tom Kelley, Brother In Law

Deputy Kolb, your watch is over and our department salutes you and your tour. May you watch over the gates of heaven, as you watched over the citizens of Kendall County, Texas.

Deputy J. Allen
Hidalgo County Sheriff's Department, Texas