Family, Friends & Fellow Officers Remember...

Skip was the Officer that responded to my accident 8/31/99 where I was ejected from my jeep on I-10. I was flown to the county hospital badly injured but survived. I was a federal agent in uniform when it occurred. I had a lengthy recovery and I was home still when his fatal accident occurred. I was so sad to see it. Watched the funeral. Think about him and that day often. It has been 25 years since my accident. Still have the police report from him. What an amazing human and officer he was from what I learned about him. Rest in peace

Tony Bianco
ICE

September 1, 2024

I am a retired dispatcher with DPS. Skip was an FTO (Field Training Officer). One day right after Skip had released the Officer he was training, the new unit keyed up checking 10-8 with Skip's call sign. I didn't think much of it as I was not aware the new Officer had been released from training. Anyway, Skip came on shortly after this unit, used his correct kall sign and without missing a beat, Skip advised "I am 10-8, the unit that just checked on with my kall sign thinks he's me, but he could never be." Everyone behind the scenes was laughing and I'm hoping the new Officer was too.

Skip had a way to always make our job interesting, kept everyone laughing and if he really wanted to, could make a dispatcher either have a great day or not so good. I enjoyed Skip's humor so I always had a GREAT day.

You are thought of often Skip. Praying your forever home is having as much fun as we did with you.

Helen Jenkins / SR. PCD
Department of Public Safety

August 21, 2023

You loved your job and the people that supported you.
You showed integrity, compassion and strength without hesitation.
Your humor was swift, smart and needed.
With a smile, your legacy on the road lives on.
You are missed. R.I.P.

Anonymous

February 18, 2023

Son of fallen officer to join his father in heaven.

Youngest son of Officer Floyd James "Skip" Fink, Jr Brandon Fink

Lisa Brooks Molina
Sister in law and Aunt to Skips boys

August 1, 2022

Walt Kowal,,,,NJSP……..still think of him to this day…..RIP Valhalla/Folkvangr ……

Walt Kowal
NJSP

May 29, 2022

Skip was a friend, and always seemed to be there when I needed help the most. He taught the Title 28 classes in the Academy. His favorite saying was "Illegal is a sick bird" when it came to describing, an Unlawful Act. DPS lost one of a few Troopers who actually made a difference. RIP my friend!

Patrolman Steven Crane, 2175
Arizona Highway Patrol

January 12, 2022

It has been some time since I had thought about the day of this incident, and how much it has been with me thru these many years. I looked to remind myself how long ago it really was, as I was thinking 12, 13 years or so; surprise, as we are coming up on 22 years. I was one of the team that used my personal extinguisher, others that I was handed by passing truckers, and a blanket that I always kept in my truck, to help get him released from the seat belt and then out of the car. We tried our best to help him until the 1st responders arrived. Those moments until they arrived may have been 2, 10, or 20 minutes, but it seemed like hours. Those early moments are the ones that have stuck with me for so many years, and pop into my head, triggered by some kind of reminder. I never knew Officer "Skip" Fink previous to that day, but have respect for all officers as I am from a military family. This officer will always be in my heart and mind, as it changed my life, on 2/18/2000. My last sight/remembrance, when they loaded him to take him away, was that my blanket was still around his legs.

Robert Knisely
Passing Motorist who cared

November 16, 2021

Sitting here in my chair in my home I started thinking about my youth and my friends I was associated with. I thought about Arizona Western and the guys I hung out with. Floyd Fink happened to be one of them. Like many, I typed went on the internet and typed in his name. Scrolling through the listings, the first one I clicked on opened to a photograph of Floyd in his uniform. The face was older but I thought it might be my old friend. As I started reading the messages, I realized it was my old friend and he was no longer with us. I still have a photograph of Floyd and myself taken in front of a huge pile of lumber we'd helped accumulate to build a celebration bonfire.
Rest in Peace my friend.

Dennis Gilstrap
Friend

April 19, 2020

I thank you for your 28 years of service . Continue to Rest In Peace

Mark Mottola

February 18, 2020

Officer Fink,
On today, the 20th anniversary of your death I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice for the citizens of the state of Arizona. And to your Family and loved ones, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy.

R.I.P.
USBP

Anonymous
United States Border Patrol

February 18, 2020

Skip,

Twenty years ago this morning , my son and I helped pull you from the flaming patrol car. Your legacy has imprinted on my life. I know I am a better Arizonan for it.

Peggy

February 18, 2020

I remember the day of your passing. I retired from the Tempe Police Department after 28 years of service at the age of 53. I am so sad that you never were given the joy of the five years, I have had since retiring. Rest in peace my brother and know there are those who are grateful for your sacrifice. God bless your family.

Detective
Tempe Police Department

August 24, 2019

In the summer of 1993 I was just arriving back to the valley after living in Los Angeles for a little while. As a young thoughtful black man, arriving somewhat disallusioned after being harrassed with the threat of jail by over zealous officers with unclear motives; I had no criminal record, no illegal habits, and no predisdopsition towards fringe behavior. But, what i did have was a recent and well earned mistrust for law enforcement based upon the bad batch that i had encountered. Armed with a shiny new atittude problem, I was speeding southbound on I-17 when i was pulled over by DPS. I knew that I was in the wrong, but i had my pen and scratch paper prepared as my only defense should my lead foot serve as catalyst towards a violent encounter. I nervously observed as a big towering officer lumbered toward my vehicle. He leaned down and motioned for me to lower my window(it was "cracked" and i had no intention of lowering it further). Just as I was setting up to engage in peaceful defiance of any request not in print, Officer Fink greeted me with a disarming and fatherly smile. That was the only weapon needed to lower this "wanna be" thugs defenses, and he weilded it with marksman like precision. Officer Fink encouraged me to drive slower, and enquired regarding my origin & destination. Fast forwad 15 minutes and we were standing on the side of the road chatting about life and our experiences, with the smell of Holsum bakery wafting through the air. I dont remember all that we discussed, but the part that I do remember has benefited myself, as well as every young man that I've shared it with subsequent to this encounter. Officer Fink told me that we're living in sensitive times between Police & young men of color(i.e. Rodney King). He admitted, "More officers need to educate themselves about the areas they work. But, more people need to keep in mind that the officer is a human with a family just like them." He advised, "when a cop pulls you over, try not to be quick to assume. Sure, there are bad apples in every bunch. But many incidents are created, not cause the officer is evil, but because he's afraid. Just like you." He then encouraged me to do something that I've not only done, but ive encouraged ALL my friends to do. When an officer pulls you over, put him at ease by putting your hands on the steering wheel so that he can see them. He informed me that that small gesture of consideration will go miles towards an environment of respect during that short encounter. Not only have I followed Officer Finks advice in all my future dealings with law enforcement, but Ive never had another negative encounter to this day! Sure, I've met cops that make me scratch my head as to how they passed the psych eval. But ive met far more HUMANS, looking to do a job before going home to their families. Ive met friends that stop and chat me up when we encounter each other in the neighborhood. Many of the guys I'VE shared Officer Finks advice with, have utilized it to their own benefit. I can resolutely say this kindhearted officer left behind a legacy that stretches beyond the boundaries of Arizona. I can only hope that his legacy has continued within the department. Its not just about his professionalism and sense of duty. Its the fact that he saw me as a human, and taught me to see Officers in the same manner. Im not so naive as to think that all Officers & citizens will follow our lead. But when i see an officer approach with a kind smile, or I see civillians and officers from different backgrounds, peacefully "shooting the breeze", I'd like to think that men like Officer Fink are leaving more of a legacy than we might realize. I believe strongly that one day, all men will exist in peace(Psalm 37:10, 11, 29). But until that day, lets try to follow Officer Finks lead, regardless of occupation or background.

Past Aquaintance

September 4, 2018

Skip,
Just found this site when reading articles on Trooper Edenhofer, latest AZ DPS to die in line of duty (RIP).

Rember first time we met? You were determined to INTIMIDATE me, and crush my hand when we shook (Your little test of guys!). You did not know me, I had not done anything wrong to you, BUT I had the nerve to be in love with your special gal, the one you helped raise and mentored when she followed you into DPS. You were not going to let some wimpy, sniveler break her heart! Over his broken, dead body!!

Well, YOU learned something didn't you. Not only was my grip equal to yours (admit hand was little sore later), but as for intimidation, I was raised by 6'4" WWII Marine! You could not come close to what he taught me about not being afraid and standing ground.

As soon as you realized I was not a flake/wimp we hit it off. I got the extreme honor and pleasure of being your "partner" on numerous ride alongs. You showed me how you could arrest some one while still allowing them their dignity if they treated you same.

I was shocked when heard news that Feb. morning while we were getting dressed for work. La Retta just turned to me and said "That is Skip." I asked how she could know, it just happened and no names had been given. She said "I just know!"

She was right, and both our world's were less rosy from that day forward. We will both never forget you. Who could, you were as intense and focused as you were mischievous and scheming. You were the ultimate professional with a sprinkling of boyish mischief thrown in for good measure.

Couple years after your death I was playing on MVD website for license plates and found a special one. Found I could get personalized Fallen Officer plate, with your name and badge number on it. Not second wait, ordered immediately. As long as I have vehicle to attach it to (motorized wheel chair soon?) I will keep FINK 940 in your memory.

Oh, and just to update you on your decision to "let me" marry La Retta, next year will be 25 years married, so I think she might keep me!

BE SAFE!

Dennis Lehan
Married to Skip's cousin

August 3, 2018

Another DPS officer has paid the ultimate price for his service and will be joining you at the right hand of God. I wasn't living in AZ when you paid the price Officer Fink but my mother was and she was terribly upset at the incident, circumstances and that officers were driving Crown Vics that had a known design flaw that contributed to your being taken from your family, friends, co-workers and the citizens of the State of Arizona. She sent me many news articles regarding the case. I will be honest, as time went on, and not living in AZ, it did fade from my mind. Then I moved back to Arizona, to a small town in Central Arizona and several years after moving here I met Michael Ann and she is an amazing woman. Who would have thought? Life works in mysterious ways because in 2000 I never dreamed I would be moving back to AZ let alone have even an acquaintance with anyone you knew and loved. I don't know her well but we have mutual friends and I see her on social media and I can tell she is a person whose love has no boundaries or time limits and she will never let a fallen officer be forgotten...I know you already know that but I'm just sayin'! I am honored to have crossed paths with her and witnessed her strength and support for all law enforcement officers. So many hearts are heavy again so look out for this young man,Tyler Edenhofer, and may you both Rest in Peace in Heaven because the angels among us are watching over all, fallen and still on the job!

Anonymous

July 27, 2018

Gone but never forgotten.

Desiree Komar McDonald

February 18, 2018

Just saw him mentioned on LivePD. So sorry for his loss.

Anonymous

March 5, 2017

"Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God."
Matthew 5:9

Marshal Chris Di Gerolamo
Federal Air Marshal Service

February 17, 2013

Thank you for your service and for helping to make America a safer place.

Deputy Brian Jones
Boulder County Sheriff's Office, CO

February 6, 2013

I still miss you, Skip. I saw your son a couple of weeks ago in Globe, he looks so much like you.

You big bear, I love your smile.

Donna Hudson
friend

July 30, 2012

Skip,

I was too young to know you well, but you are missed. Stories and anecdotes from my family referenced you often. you had the respect, both as a man and as an officer, of the greatest man I know. You are remembered by those of us that remain.

Jeff
Family of a retired AZ DPS officer

July 27, 2012

Yesterday marked the 12th anniversary of your death. Sometimes it seems like only yesterday that you left and sometimes it seems like it's been a lifetime. You are missed...

Michael Ann

February 19, 2012

Officer Fink,
On today, the 12th anniversary of your death I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice for the citizens of the state of Arizona. And to your family and loved ones, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy.

R.I.P.
USBP

Anonymous
U.S. Border Patrol

February 18, 2012

officer fink, you were the best. us native americans (apaches) you knew how to speak our lingo. we have a strong bound because you stopped and ck. on us up at seneca lake. Ron

Ron Edwards
friend

December 27, 2011

It's more than eleven years later and not a day goes by that thoughts of you don't cross my mind. Today, they are more prevalent as Arizona has lost yet another officer. Please watch over him and show him the ropes.

Michael Ann

October 29, 2011