Green Lake County Sheriff's Office, Wisconsin
End of Watch Sunday, October 19, 2003
Reflections for Deputy Sheriff Bruce Allen Williams
Lord, I have one question. Why have you called me?
I lived my life with honor and dignity.
I have chosen a path to serve my fellow man.
I unselfishly gave on my time to others.
I have been the best family man I could be.
The Lord answered; You have served me well. Now it is time to reap your reward.
Rest in Peace Deputy Bruce Williams.
Officer Wayne Boos
City of Oconto, WI
November 18, 2003
I am terribly saddned by the senseless loss of such a wonderful officer. Although I did not know him personally, I can say that he was amazing by all the love felt through his reflection. His memory will certainly be carried on by family, coworkers and friends by the wonderful stories about baseball games, nights on the job, and the love of his girls.
God Speed brother in blue, watch over us as we all patrol
Peace be with you-
Anonymous
November 15, 2003
We are truly saddened at Bruce's loss.
--------------------------------------
We all recall you gave your best.
You did your job, now you can rest.
Your comrades now can cover your post
as you take your place with the Heavenly Host.
God Bless Our Fallen Brothers & Sisters.
---------------------------------------
Our prayers will be with you, your family, and co-workers!
Ptlm. P.K. Harding
Binghamton (NY) PD
November 11, 2003
I don't have the words to express how sad I feel for your community, department, family, friends, and co-workers. As a former Deputy Sheriff who has been through the weeks you are about to enter, I pray for strength for all of you. Just reading Deputy Williams memorials gives me a small glimmer of the man and his influence on all who knew him. You will never be without him as you go through life, he is your Guardian Angel until you all meet in Heaven when our time here in hell is over.
KY Peace Officer
Isaiah 30:41
November 6, 2003
Lay me down beside cool waters, and lay to rest my body sore. Send the word out to my brothers, the fire is down, let it burn no more…
PO Andrew
Chicago PD
November 5, 2003
My heart and prayers go out to the family, friends, and those officers who knew and worked with Deputy Bruce A. Williams. It is the bravery and courage of men and women in law enforcement like Deputy Williams, who keep our homes and communities safe, and ensure the freedoms we all enjoy as Americans. Deputy Williams gave the ultimate sacrafice for all of us, and I truly believe that when a fellow officer falls in battle, we as police officers all feel the shock and pain. Rest in peace brother, you have done your duty with bravery and courage. You will not be forgotten, your legacy will live on with those who continue to serve and protect.
Lieutenant Mark J. Kotte
Normal Illinois Police Department
November 4, 2003
Another brother dies serving the citizens he was sworn to protect. May God Bless and keep you. May your family and co-workers find comfort in your duty.
The policeman stood to face his God, which must always come to pass.
He hoped his boots were shining, just as brightly as his brass.
"Step forward now, Policeman. How shall I deal with you?
Have you always turned the other cheek? To my church have you been true?"
The policeman squared his shoulder's and said. "No Lord, I guess I ain't,
Because those of us who carry badges can't always be a Saint."
I've had to work most Sundays, and at times my talk was rough,
and sometimes I've been violent, because the streets are awfully tough.
"But I never took a penny that wasn't mine to keep...
Though I worked a lot of overtime when the bills got too steep.."
And I never passed a cry for help, Though at times I shook with fear.
And sometimes, God forgive me, I've wept unmanly tears.
I know I don't deserve a place among the people here.
They never wanted me around except to calm their fear."
"If you've got a place for me here Lord, It needn't be so grand.
I never expected or had too much, but if you don't...I'll understand."
There was silence all around the throne where the saints often trod.
As the policeman waited quietly, for the judgment of his God.
"Step forward now, Policeman. You've borne your burdens well.
Come walk a beat in Heaven's streets, you've done your time in Hell."
Longmont Police Officers Association
Longmont PD Colorado
November 3, 2003
May God bless you and your family Deputy Williams.
Trooper Larry Brown
Wisconsin State Patrol
November 3, 2003
A TRIBUTE TO LAW ENFORCEMENT
Brave in the face of disaster on earth-
We all can use this to measure his worth.
In time of peril instead he showed mirth,
Poised to defend from his moment of birth.
Religious faith was always his guide-
He never forget he had God at his side.
It gave him the courage, consolation and pride
To face other's sorrows till the moment he died.
Undiscriminating thinking showed through in his deeds-
Whether at work, play or home he always sowed seeds
Of acceptance and laughter, allayed others' needs.
By example toward others a true hero leads.
Consummate by nature, he did all things well-
Strove for perfection that he might excel,
And yet was not pompous because if he fell
He surely would not want his conscience to tell.
Ethereal in spirit he brushed things aside-
Focused on outcome, let good will abide.
His comrades all knew in him they could confide
And he'd lighten the moment- his heart was a mile wide.
We will miss you Bruce. The Handels
Jane Handel, Sheriff's wife
GLSO
November 3, 2003
JUST TO LET YOU KNOW BRO WE LOST A FINE OFFICER JUST LIKE YOURSELF ON A CALL SIMILAR TO YOURS (DOMESTIC). OFFICER ANTHONY WOODS OF THE MEMPHIS POLICE DEPT. EAST PRECINCT PAID THE ULTIMATE SACRIFICE ON AUGUST 27TH,2003, JUST LIKE YOU DID. THANKS FOR YOUR DEDICATION AND SACRIFICE. REST IN PEACE BRO.................. FOR WE ARE THE BLUE ANGELS!!!!!!!!!
P2 K. LOWE
MEMPHIS POLICE DEPT.
November 2, 2003
Deputy Williams,
May you rest in peace. You will never be forgotten.
God Speed.
Officer Adam Borkowski
Detroit Police Department
November 1, 2003
Another officer is laid to rest,
Why Lord, Why must you take the best?
Is it because another officer needs a new angel's protection?
Or is there something on heaven's streets that needs correction?
Whatever your reason is, we will never know,
It doesn't get any easier when another has to go.
So why Lord, Why must you take the best?
We will never know, so good night and God bless.
To the family, friends, and co-workers of D/S Bruce Williams,
You are not alone. The Law Enforcement Community shares your pain.
Officer Ryan La Broscian
Baraboo Police Dept.
October 31, 2003
As a fellow law enforcement officer (30 years), I would like to offer my deepest condolences to the entire family of Deputy Williams, well as the sisters and brothers of the GREEN LAKE COUNTY SHERIFF's DEPARTMENT.
May his soul rest in peace alongside all other law enforcement officers who have paid the ultimate sacrifice.
State Inv. Bob Hughes
NJ Dept. of Law & Public Safety
October 31, 2003
My heart goes out to this brave mans family. May your daughters always know what a true hero you are.
Lori Brown
Aunt of Deputy Renee Azure EOW 8-06-02
October 29, 2003
God bless you brother, look over the rest of us and help us be more safe on the street, we'll need you to keep an eye out. Take care
Patrol Officer Andre Wassouf
Portsmouth NH Police Department
October 29, 2003
Our deepest sympathy's go to the family of Deputy Williams.
We know the pain you feel and anger you must hold inside. Godbless your family and Deputy Williams children. It takes a very special person to put their life before others. Deputy Williams is a true hero.
RICH KNUDSEN
COUSIN OF PATRICK MAHER EOW 8-2-03
October 28, 2003
Deputy Sheriff Bruce A. Williams 1965 - 2003
On October 24, 2003, we laid to rest not only a great man, but also a great husband, father, son, brother, friend, and law enforcement officer. Bruce Allen Williams was all of these things. He was the type of man whom, other men looked up to and wanted to be like. Bruce was loved by all who knew him well, and was respected by those who did not. The Berlin Community and Citizens of Green Lake County will never forget him. His loving memory lives on in the hearts of all whom he left behind. God Bless his wife Valerie and his three daughters, Brianna, Kiersten, and Sydney.
His family, friends and co-workers are in our prayers.
Anonymous
October 28, 2003
To my fellow Brother:
May you rest in peace. We all know that you will guide us and protect us from above. Your memory will live on forever. My prayers goes out to you and your family. May God Bless You!
Special Agent
Department of Homeland Security
October 28, 2003
I feel for his family, friends, and the Green Lake Sheriff’s Department who lost someone close. My heart felt prayers are with you. Deputy Williams sacrifice will live among us, his fellow brothers of Law Enforcement from which at many times is we have, one another.
Officer
Mauston Police Department
October 27, 2003
Goose,
Well the gear is stowed away and the radios are charged, so I guess it's time to get back to work. Teddy Kuk pointed out that you would be the first person reminding us to quit feeling sorry for ourselves- to just get out there and hit it. Speculation was that had another officer been involved that you'd have spent this last week taking drunk drivers off the street, and I guess that's about right.
You never ceased to amaze me with your outlook on our department, police work, and life in general. I'll never forget that voice mail you left when you discovered that Brianna had cancer. The emotion and exhaustion said more than anything and I can't imagine a more terrified father. Your strength and love carried you through and I still can't imagine a better father, husband, or son than you.
Thank you for the many laughs and memories.
Rest in peace my friend.
Detective, GLSO
Detective Timothy R. Lueptow
Green Lake County Sheriff's Office
October 27, 2003
"Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled. Blessed are the merciful for they will be shown mercy. Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God. Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called sons of God. Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven." Matthew 5:6-10
The Final Inspection
The policeman stood and faced his God,
Which must always come to pass.
He hoped his shoes were shining.
Just as brightly as his brass.
"Step forward now, policeman.
How shall I deal with you?
Have you always turned the other cheek?
To My church have you been true?"
The policeman squared his shoulders and said,
"No, Lord, I guess I ain't,
Because those of us who carry badges
can't always be a saint.
I've had to work most Sundays,
and at times my talk was rough,
and sometimes I've been violent,
Because the streets are awfully tough.
But I never took a penny,
That wasn't mine to keep....
Though I worked a lot of overtime
When the bills got just too steep.
And I never passed a cry for help,
Though at times I shook with fear.
And sometimes, God forgive me,
I've wept unmanly tears.
I know I don't deserve a place
Among the people here.
They never wanted me around
Except to calm their fear.
If you've a place for me here, Lord,
It needn't be so grand.
I never expected or had too much,
But if you don't.....I'll understand.
There was silence all around the throne
Where the saints had often trod.
As the policeman waited quietly,
For the judgment of his God.
"Step forward now, policeman,
You've borne your burdens well.
Come walk a beat on Heaven's streets,
You've done your time in hell."
Rest In Peace, my brother in blue. Watch over us as we continue the fight. You will not be forgotten.
Officer Farrell
Mount Pleasant, Wisconsin
Police Officer Chris Farrell
Mount Pleasant Police Department
October 27, 2003
To the family, friends, and co-workers,
I only had the opportunity of working with Bruce acouple times when we couldn’t decide which side of the county line the call was. But talking to all of you and hearing the stories, he will be greatly missed.
To Green Lake County Sheriff's Department, just know that the hearts and prayers of your neighbors to the west are with you at all times.
WHY A DEPUTY
Why do you wanna be a deputy so many people ask, your always getting beat up on, shot at, ridiculed and harassed
Why do you wanna be a deputy so many people want to know, you work long, hard, odd, strenuous hours for pay that’s a joke
Why do you wanna be a deputy people ask with uncertainty in their eyes, you get no respect and so many times you don’t even know if your gonna go home that night
Why do you wanna be a deputy my family is constantly asking, you put you’re life on the line everyday, and you see and hear the most horrible things
So why do I wanna be a deputy? Well it’s not easy to explain, it’s just something that I want in my heart, in my soul, in my inner flame
Why A Deputy?
For when I catch the burglar who broke into an old woman’s home, who has ruffed her up, stolen all her belongings and her pride and now she is scared to be alone.
To be able to tell her that he is behind bars and she is now safe, to be able to see a sigh of relief in her eyes, and a smile upon her face
Why A Deputy?
For when I pull over a car that’s a possible DUI and I give him a field sobriety test and realize this guy is way too drunk to drive Because of me there is one less drunk out there tonight, one less possibility that he could kill someone or ruin an innocent life
Why A Deputy?
For when I arrive at the scene of a young girl who has been raped, her confidence, self-esteem, and pride have been stolen, and now she is scared and afraid
I hold her hand, and comfort her when she cries as I listen to her horrible story and assure her that everything will be all right, I am able to reassure her faith in herself and help her understand that she didn’t cause this rape, for now she believes in angels and she knows that I will keep her safe
Why A Deputy?
For when I see a smile on a child’s face and knowing that because of
me their world is a little safer place
For when I teach kids to "just say no" and they remember it when someone tries to sell them dope
For all the good that I do For all the help that I provide
So Why a deputy you ask, because it’s worth it even if I only change one
person’s life.
By
Christina Sudduth
Rest in peace, you have done your time
Deputy Sheriff
Marquette County Sheriff's Department
October 27, 2003
Deputy Williams,
Our thoughts and prayers go out to you, your family and the Green Lake County SO.
You made the ultimate sacrifice.
Officers of the Sun Prairie Police Dept. WI
K9 Officer M Timm
Sun Prairie Police, WI
October 27, 2003
Thank you for your dedicated hard work in Green Lake County. I am one of the civilians in this community that never had a chance to thank you for your service, and now unfortunately, for your life. What a tragedy. We will miss you Officer Williams. God Speed.
Melissa Chamberlin
Berlin Resident
October 27, 2003
Deputy Bruce A. Williams, Mrs. Williams and Daughters,
No one could understand your pain right now. I pray that somehow the heavy burden you are feeling could somehow be lifted by the thought of all of us who are thinking of you now. Please know that no one in our law enforcement family suffers alone. Deputy Williams will remain in our thoughts and memories forever. Although that is not enough it is all we can do to hold him in the deepest respect and to commit ourselves to carry on his honorable memory. Deputy Williams, thank you Brother, for giving us all a reason to carry on this thankless fight. Sir, you did make a difference and that is all anyone could ever hope for in their life. Thank You Brother, form the deepest part of our souls.
Your Brothers,
Ontario Police Dept. Ohio
Ptl.T.D.Hill
Ontario Police Dept.
October 27, 2003
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