Family, Friends & Fellow Officers Remember...

Two years have passed and you have not been forgotten and are a true hero. I know your family is still feeling the pain and experiencing the devastation because of your loss. Watch over them and protect them and also all those officers still out on patrol. You will never be forgotten.

Bob Gordon, father of fallen officer Michael P. Gordon, EOW: 8/8/04

Bob Gordon, Asst. Chief, Retired
Riverside PD, IL

August 26, 2005

It's been almost 2 years since you left us and I still can't believe that you are really gone. I think about you often and know that you are watching over all of us with those beautiful eyes and heart warming smile. God Bless you Shannon. You will always hold a special place in my heart.

August 13, 2005

This has been a long time coming. I wanted to start by saying Happy Birthday! There isn't a day that goes by that I don't think about you and all of the fun we had in the "Old days" back in Fo-town. I was looking forward to the day that I would get to tell you about being accepted to the academy, but that day has come and gone. We have since graduated and hit the streets, and Columbus hasn't been the same since. I will always carry you in my thoughts and I will continue to keep your family in my prayers. We all miss you and look forward to the day that we will get a chance to catch up on the old days. Thank you for doing your part to keep our country safe and thank you for your sacrifice. See you again some day.

Matt

Officer Matt Deerwester
Columbus P.D.

August 7, 2005

Happy Birthday Shannon!
We miss you so much.
I love you!

Lindsay Distel
Sister

August 7, 2005

A HERO TO MORE THAN HE KNOWS. (c)2004

Emory - Ephrata, WA
brother of Ferry County WA Undersheriff Matthew J. Lane, EOW 5/30/03

April 24, 2005

Shannon, My Love
Oh honey, how I miss you. The kids miss you so much. I still cannot believe that you are truly gone. It’s still so hard for me to understand why. I know I will never know why God had to take you from all of us until we are together again in Heaven. I know God needed an Angel to keep watch in Heaven above, and so he took the best. You were a man like no other. I walk around our beautiful home, that you worked so diligently on to make perfect for the kids and me, and there are so many pictures and so many memories, so much love here but there is something missing …it’s You..My Husband and Our kids’ Daddy--Our house feels so empty without you. It's hard to walk into the garage and not see your motorcycle. I can’t believe that it’s been almost 15 long months without you. Some days it feels like it’s been so long since I’ve seen you, and other days take me right back as if it were just yesterday when you were here, kissing me goodbye and telling me you loved me as you walked out to do the job you so loved, calling me all throughout the day just to say hi and that you loved me..and to hear me say I love you back, then finally coming home to our family that you so loved, and was so proud of. We miss seeing you pulling up in our driveway on your bike flashing your lights at us with that beautiful smile of yours. Savannah and Brionna are growing into beautiful young ladies, and are getting straight A’s. You’d be so proud. Savannah writes you letters all the time expressing how much she misses you. Bri is looking like you so much, even more so than she did, and she is so proud to tell everyone that she is sooo happy that she looks like her Daddy. She's got her running skills from her Daddy too. Tucker is doing awesome in school too- still the class clown, but he’s at the top of his class. He’s getting ready to start up a new sport he hasn't tried yet-football—but, he misses having you there to help coach him in baseball and misses just hanging out with you. And Brody, our little miracle baby--the son you so wanted, is such a character--loving-but ornery, and funny as all heck...so smart and what a handsome boy he is –just like his Daddy. At 20 months -He already shares your love for motorcycles—every time he hears one he points and gets excited and his Daddy’s cheeseburger smile comes across so clearly on his cute little face. You’re Mom and Dad says that he reminds them so much of you too. Brody points to your picture above our mantle and says "Da Da." You know that -“Da Da”- was his first word, he said it shortly after the accident-and even though you weren’t here to hear him say it, I know you heard him. I hurt so much inside knowing Brody will never experience the awesome Dad you would have been to him, just as you were to our other children. He‘ll never know how lucky I was to have a man like you to have as a Husband and Father to our children. Bri was so lucky to have a Dad who took on the responsibility to raise her - Then we met - and Savannah and Tucker and I were lucky to have such a loving man come into our lives - Then came our Wedding day-the day we vowed to be together forever-I was so proud to be your Wife and to have you as my Husband, Then came our beautiful little boy, our son, Brody, and Our lives we're finally perfect. The puzzle was complete. And then it was all ripped away. Our lives were robbed of the Perfect Man in our lives. I know you are not here on this earth—but, we feel you around us, and know that you are still taking care of us from Heaven above. We’re getting your signs—so, please keep giving them to us—it helps us to get through another day. Even though you are not here, physically, you are always here…in our hearts. You are sooo missed, not only by Me and the Kids, but by your Mom and Dad, Lindsay and Brandon, my family, your friends and fellow officers. Life hasn’t been.. and will never ever be the same without you. As hard as it is, I know we have to go on, and we have a lot of help and support which I know are gifts from above and we’ve been doing the best we can and will continue to do so. We’ve got our very own Guardian Angel watching over us. Today we’re going to watch home videos and bake cookies all day. If I can’t spend today with you by my side, just know that you are here with me..in my heart..and at least we have a lot of videos for the kids and I to watch and remember and cherish the moments in this life that we did get to spend with you. Happy Anniversary Honey — The love we shared is a love that was so strong, a relationship like no other-I will carry that with me forever --I miss you terribly and I love you with all my heart and always will.

Deanna Distel
Wife of Shannon Distel

November 23, 2004

Shannon-You have been on my mind a lot the last few weeks. I can't believe it has been 15 months since you were taken from us all. So many times I reach for the phone to call and see whats up with you not realizing you are not there. Thank you for Dee and the kids. Through them all I see you and know you are still around. I miss you so much and I know we will see each other again. Thank you for watching over us all. I love you.

Lindsay Distel
Sister

November 20, 2004

Shannon..Today is the Marine Corps Birthday and you were very much on my mind as we held our Cake Cutting Ceremony this morning. As we were singing the last lines of the Marine's Hymn, you know the ones..."If the Army and the Navy ever look on Heaven's scenes, They will find the streets are guarded by United States Marines"...the words took on a whole new meaning to me. I know that is what you are up there doing, not only as a Marine, but a CHP officer as well. Being part of both worlds, I know those streets could not be in better hands.
Happy Birthday Marine & SEMPER FI

GySgt Laticia Coon
United States Marine Corps

November 10, 2004

Shannon,
The Riverside CHP office misses you dearly. When we look at Brody and your other children we see your face come alive and realize you are still here. Your presence is still and will continue to be felt. Take care and keep the streets of Heaven safe,
Jim

Officer Jim Whitney
CHP - Riverside

September 30, 2004

It's not the same without you around. Bri turned 11 today. She is growning up to be an awesome young lady. You would be very proud of her!

Heather McCullah

Heather McCullah Sister in law

September 19, 2004

It has been a year since that tragic day in August when you were taken from us. I still see that beautiful smile when I think of you. Thanks for watching over Jim on duty and off, I
think you have saved him a couple of times! I hear your celestial birthday was a blast. God Bless

Barbara Brown
CHP motor officers Mom

September 14, 2004

I did not know officer Distel, but I know several officers from his station, and I know they still keep his picture up on the board because they miss him so much. The officers I have met from Inland Division are all awesome and I'm sure Officer Distel was too.
R.I.P. Sir

citizen
Arcadia, CA

September 12, 2004

It's been a year but we have not forgotten you Shannon. You're in our thoughts today and always. Your smile will never fade!

Heather & Bill McCullah

Heather McCullah

August 30, 2004

This past Saturday, 08/21/04, Dee and the kids had an awesome "celestial" birthday celebration for you! It was unbelievable and you would have been soooo proud! There was laughter and tears! I can't believe it will be a year this Friday. We all miss your smile, laughter and most importantly your love for Deanna, Brionna, Savannah, Tucker and Brody. Not a day goes by that we don't think about you. Continue watching over us and when we look up to the sky and see a star, we know you are there!
Miss ya, Cindy

Cindy McCullah
Sister In Law

August 23, 2004

We miss you bro. Not a day goes by that you're not thought of. Some how it's comforting to know you were doing what you loved to do. Ride. May we all be so fortunate when our time comes.
Shannon, you're larger than life. After saying that,the only thing I can think of, is you agreeing with me "yeah, you're right. I am larger than life" with that dumb ass smurk. Thanks for watching over us. Especially Dee and the Kids.
See you at Clampers!

Officer James Brown
CHP

August 13, 2004

Happy Father's Day, Son...I know that you are looking down on your family from Heaven...You loved your children and your wife so very much. How my heart longs just to hear your voice...you were so very special in all of our lives....You didn't have enough time to spend with Brody, Brionna, Savannah, or Tucker. I can only hope and pray that your love and memory lives on....You cherished Brody, Brionna, Savannah and Tucker so very much. And I know without a doubt how deeply your love was for Deanna. You were so very special....We miss you so very much...I love you, my son.

Cindy Distel
Mother of Shannon L Distel, EOW 8/27/03

June 20, 2004

As I sit here today thinking back on the events of the past few weeks, your presence is so strong. What a wonderful tribute we attended during National Police Week in Washington, DC. How proud you would have been of your wife, children, brother and sister. How proud we are of you and all that you stood for. I look into the eyes of your youngest son, Brody, and see you so very clearly. I see your smile and mannerisms in Brionna and see the love that you shared with Savannah and Tucker shine through in their behavior and loving memories that they have for you. Deanna's heart longs for you...you would be so proud of her and how she is handling everyday life without you and all that comes along with it. What a wonderful mother she is to your children....but you know that. We had the pleasure of meeting with your partner Maurice and his wife....what wonderful people...I now know why you loved them so much. He still stands watch here on earth as you stand watch in Heaven. Tom and James think of you often and are active in your children's lives..they also stand watch. I know that you loved them,too. God bless them all.
There is not a day that goes by that I don't think of you, miss you and wish that you could be here with us. You are loved and missed so very much by everyone. The past nine months have seemed like an eternity...I long to hear your voice and feel the strength of your arms as you gave out the hugs that you so loved to give. My dear son, I will love you and miss you for the rest of my life. Thank you for watching over us. I am so very proud to be your mother.

Cindy Distel
Mother of Shannon Distel

June 2, 2004

Hey Buddy,

I'm going rafting again without you. This time I'm doing the North Fork Combo in May. You know, when the snow melts and the rapids are at their best and there's a chance you might get injured. Yeah, the fun stuff pal. I miss you and love you.

Carlos Centeno

May 6, 2004

Hey Buddy,

I'm going rafting again without you. This time I'm doing the North Fork Combo in May. You know, when the snow melts and the rapids are at their best and there's a chance you might get injured. Yeah, the fun stuff pal. I miss you and love you.

Carlos Centeno

May 6, 2004

Dee & Family,

Not a day goes by that we are not thinking of Shannon and his beautiful family. The famous "mole" story that he told so well, the "pizza man" mustache he grew last summer, the night at Sing Sings, River trips, Bridgeport, Vegas (him scaring the bajoogles out of Josh), Brody in his arms at 2 days old, him and Bill running out of gas in the Jeep while you did my hair, him handing us Etchmaster t-shirts and being so proud, cleaning the darn pool over and over again, ever so quietly removing his boots from the guest room on the mornings we stayed over, eating you out of house and home just like Brionna, you two cuddled up on the couch watching American Chopper, him making Savannah sing "right thur" just so he could laugh, his endless police adventures and retelling of them, all the holidays, birthdays and just because days, his 31st birthday party (the kiss) & (his calming of the upset neighbor) :) Sizzler the next day, him climbing on the roof to help Tuck get his new Airhog down on his birthday, your baby shower -u too playing the games, him making fun of my "too bright" pink lipstick, all the days and nights in the jaccuzi, stories him and u told about the dog park, Bill's graduation & party, his obsession with Ebay, him cleaning that darn pool over and over, and of course his extreme happiness with you and the kids are only a few of the many memories that make us smile, laugh and cry all at the same time. He is with us everyday in so many ways. Cherish every thought and rememberance. WE DO! :)

Annual Baker to Vegas this weekend...Shannon's favorite place to be besides home. :)

All Our Love,
Heather, Bill, Britt & Colt

April 24, 2004

Shannon, we miss you so much. Your smile could light up a room , and your sense of humor was one of a kind. I hate that Dee has to live the rest of her life without the presence of the person that completed her best. I grieve for the friendship that can no longer grow with you a part of it. Everyone who knew you has learned to live life as you did..to the fullest..loving every moment . Loving your wife in a way that made others blush when they could see you together and being the kind of father that other men could learn from. Your path to heaven was paved with great respect for the CHP profession. You gave your life protecting all of us , something you did daily with great pride. You've left your children with a legacy they can be proud of. Dont worry , we'll be here for Dee and the kids. Brody is growing so fast. Awnry like his Dad! WE love you and we'll see you at the gates of heaven with your big "Cheeseburger" smile!

Servin Family

Lena Servin
Friend of family

April 23, 2004

Words cannot express how much I miss you. I thank God for the days you were with us. Your spirit lives on in your children and wife. You are such a beautiful family. I love you and miss you so much.

Lindsay Distel
Sister

April 23, 2004

Just sitting here thinking about ya.

Detective Troy Henshaw
Bell Gardens Police Department, CA.

April 14, 2004

I stop by this website often after the death of two dear friends with the NCSHP (Troopers Calvin Taylor E.O.W. October 3, 2001 and Anthony Cogdill E.O.W. May 30, 2003).

We all grieve over the lives lost in the line of duty. I hope you can find some comfort knowing that there are countless prayers that go out for your family. It is obvious from the reflections that Officer Distel was a wonderful man.

These are senseless tragedies that never seem to stop. God Bless the men and women who continue to serve their communities in our great Nation.

...Gone, but never Forgotten....

Marti (EMT-Paramedic)
Haywood Co EMS (NC)

April 4, 2004

It has been 6 months ago today that Shannon was killed doing the job he loved. We miss him so much! I would just love for him to see how Deanna is taking such awesome care of his 4 children and loves and misses him everyday. His son, Brody will be turning one in a week and would be so proud of his daddy. Shannon's smile lives on in Brody's smile everyday!
We miss you and know that you are watching over us everday!

Cindy McCullah
Sister-In-Law

February 27, 2004