Family, Friends & Fellow Officers Remember...

Mark,

I lit a candle today by your marker. Someone had left another note and gift in your memory. Yvonne and I do not know who leaves the stuff but it is nice of them and we really appreciate their thoughtfulness.
Tonight is Christmas Eve and it breaks my heart that you are not with us. It makes me sick to think of all the evil in this world that just does not makes sense. I better not get started. I am thankful for the times that I did get with you. It just wasn't enough but I guess no matter how long I would have had it would never have been enough.
I love you and Merry Christmas. Tell Mike Merry Christmas for me too.

Love Mom

December 24, 2006

MERRY CHRISTMAS MARK !!!!!!!!!!!!

December 24, 2006

Mark, wishing you and your family a safe holiday season.

I had just started my career when Mark was senselessly taken. I think about it often especially when I am alone in my patrol car. Unfortunately several officers have fallen since that time but Mark stays with me the most. I just received a letter from the Oakland Police Academy regarding the scholarship fund set up in his and Gary Davis’ name. This led me to return to their reflections pages.

Though I never knew Mark it is very clear that he was an amazing husband, father, son and friend, and is loved very much. All your heartfelt reflections really hit me. I hesitated to leave a message because I felt like an intruder in something very personal to all of you. However, even though I’m a stranger, I wanted to share that your family is in mine and my family’s thoughts and prayers and will always be with me.

Yvonne,
Although it was all too brief, it sounds like in your time together here you and Mark had more in your relationship than most couples do in a lifetime. I admire your courage and strength.

(Is there a college fund or anything of that nature for Lily?)

Inv. Kevin Seymour
Rail Police. Detroit, MI

December 23, 2006

Mark,

We wish you and your family a very Merry Christmas this year. It will be tough for all, I’m sure, so please watch over your family and friends. We all think of you every day, as always. May you celebrate with us all from Heaven!

Dennis & Jen Brozowski

December 21, 2006

Hi Mark,
Thinking of you and wanted to wish you and all of your family a peaceful and safe Holiday season. I know how hard it is to go through this time of year thinking how can we say "HAPPY HOLIDAYS" when we'd all be happier if you and Mike were here! You are such a hero and it makes me feel better that there are men and women out there like you protecting us from harm! RIP and send your love to your family this holiday season! (Tell Mike "HI" for us too)

Yvonne,Lily,Faith,Michelle, and everyone of Mark's family and friends,

May your holidays be as bright as the star Mark shines for you and know that my thoughts and prayers are always with you....bless you all, Kari

Kari Fry

December 18, 2006

Dear Mark,

Just was thinking about you and wanted to let you know. Yvonne called me to let me know what Lily was saying, something about only I can pray and not Grandma Diane. She associates that I am sure with me going to church. She knows that I go every Sunday. Isn't that funny. Such a smart kid. (Yoou already know that). Uncle RJ just joined you and Mike so all of you have a good golf game. Don't be too rough on RJ. He a newcomer. I love youand miss you.

Love Mom

December 13, 2006

Mark,
Many times I visit your page and want to write you, but find myself at a loss for the right words. I don't know why tonight of nights. Maybe because I talked to Lily on the phone earlier and heard her sweet little voice. Maybe because I was researching trucks earlier online and thought how that's exactly what you'd do. Maybe because a friend of mine was telling me about his son getting a job with the Eastpointe police yesterday and how his wife is worried. Maybe it has been that I was scared I would cry once I started. I don't know. I think it's all of the above and more.
I think about you often, and it seems that everything in life always comes back to you and the fact that you're not here with us. I still can't believe it sometimes. I look at my sister and my niece and my heart aches for them. It's even worse knowing that I can ever take away the pain of losing you. I've had to come to terms with that, too. And it's been hard. You know how close Yvonne and I are, and I have always felt the need to protect my baby sister and "fix" things for her when they are not right. How do I fix this? I wish more than anything in the world that I could.

I am so grateful for the relationship I had with you and Yvonne. I used to wonder if you were ever annoyed because I was always over your apartment and your house! That and the fact that Yvonne was always shopping with me! I never felt like a third wheel and I always felt welcome anytime. I have many fond memories of times we all shared and funny things we all did together. Remember Keith's 30th b-day and making me hide your beers in my coat pockets on the haunted hayride?! It was freezing out and they made me even colder, but I did it for you. Or calling me on my cell in Florida over Easter break and asking me if Yvonne was with me? You laughed at that one. I still remember the smile on your face too, after letting you take your dad for a drive in my mustang. You then of course wanted to buy one! Lol.

Once in a while Lily will spend the night with me at my apartment. She loves it here. Especially now that I have a puppy named Lola. She tells me that "Lola is my puppy", then adds "She's all of ours puppy." She trys to whistle to her but ends up making a strange woo-woo sound that scares Lola and she runs away. Then poor Lil gets upset. She loves her so much that she doesn't know yet to let Lola come to her...she tries to force her!

Well I guess I found the words! At least some of them. Please continue to give everyone the signs they need, it helps. Ring of Fire...who would have guessed it?

Stay in Yvonne & Lily's dreams.
Miss you so much,
Tracy

Tracy Bawcum
Sister-in-law

December 9, 2006

To the familly that mentioned giving a donation to MI-COPS, I just want you to know that MI-COPS has been a great support group for our family. Getting support from the people in this group is different from friends because they have all been in the same shoes. They know first hand what we are dealing with. Our friends and Mark's co-workers have been so wonderful in the last two years but this group of people have also been a wonderful support system. It is an excellent group to give a donation to. They support families and friends of officers killed in the line of duty in so many ways. Thank you for your consideration.

Faith Sawyers (mother of Mark Sawyers)

December 9, 2006

Hi Mark,

I just wanted to let you know that I am thinking about you. Lily spent the night with me. We went to Gibralter Trade Center. She rode the rides, we ate and shopped around. When we got home Jason was driving by so came in for a little while. Then Lily watched Frosty the Snowman on TV. She is great for snuggling up to because her feet are so warm.
She sang twinkle twinkle little star going out to the trade center. She can carry a tune pretty good. I'm not sure where she gets that from. It seems like we credit all her good stuff from you but Yvonne does such a great job with her. She is such a good mom. She spends lots of time playing with Lily. Anyways, I just wanted to write a little and let you know I think aboutyou all the tine and love you.

Mom

December 9, 2006

My New Watch

I began my new watch today and everything’s going fine.
I just wanted to let you know that I would be checking in on you from time to time.

It’s really different here, but in a good way,
Although the change was sudden, rest assured there is nowhere else I’d rather stay.

I work with a crew of true heroes, who always do their best,
They always do their part, and watch over all the rest.

I can’t change what happened on that fateful night
But remember that I will forever continue to fight.

Please tell my family I love them and I’m with them all the time.
Help my wife when I can’t and give a kiss to that sweet child of mine.

I walk a new beat that seems so far away
But you can reach me, and I’ll back you up, you only have to pray.

I have to go now for there’s a rookie on the street.
I have to do my part, for it’s not his time to walk this special beat.

Friend
Sterling Heights Police Department

December 8, 2006

Thank you so much for the last reflection. Your actions are a wonderful tribute to all officers, and a beautiful lesson for your children. MI-Cops is a beneficial organization that Mark's mom is involved in. I personally recieved alot of support and help from The Thin Blue Line of Michigan. Whichever charity you choose, it will be going to a worthy cause. God bless you and your family.

Yvonne

December 4, 2006

Yvonne,

Our daughters 8th birthday is just around the corner and for her 1st birthday we didn't ask for gifts, we asked everyone to make a donation to MICOPS in memory of all the daddy's and mommy's who would not be there for their childs first birthday. This year we would like to do the same thing. The only question we have is, would you like us to donate to MICOPS again or is there another charity you would prefer us to dontate to in Marks name?

Marks presence is still felt in our home. For the past 2 Christmas' we have put up a "Policeman tree" as our children call it, with Marks badge number as our tree topper, along with numerous police officer themed ornaments. My husband never got to know Mark very well during his time at SHPD, but his memory will live on. Please know that people you don't even know still care and pray for you and Lily. Happy holidays, I know that God and Mark are with you.

SHPD wife

December 3, 2006

Dear Mark,

I am sorry we were not able to attend your birthday celebration at your moms last night. Unfortunately I had a doctor appointment for my broken foot that was clear on the other side of town, and would not have made it back to your mom's in a timely fashion. I'm sure you know you were on our minds and in our hearts all day yesterday for your birthday. Of course we think of you every day and our thoughts are always with your parents, Yvonne and Lily. The entire family has lost so much when you were stolen from us. I especially think and worry about your mom all the time. No one, including myself, can truly understand the pain and anguish your parents are experiencing unless they have lost a child themselves. The heartache must be immeasurable and unbearable.

I know this time of year makes it even harder with the holidays and both yours and Yvonne's birthdays. I am glad I was able to take Lily shopping for Yvonne's present from her. She was so darn excited about putting together that picture frame she picked out. When it came time to pick out the larger photo for the bottom of the frame, I had given her five photos to choose from. Two pictures were of just Lily and Yvonne, two were just you and Yvonne, and one was you, Yvonne and Lily at her baptism. She picked the last one. We then assembled the frame, she helped wrap it and but it in the bag she picked out. It was kind of a hideous bag with all these different color circles on it, but she liked it. She picked out a blue bow as well. It reminded me of police blue. We had just got done hiding the present in the princess room and were walking up the hallway when Yvonne walked in. She was picking up Lily to head to your parents for Thanksgiving. Lily must have run back to that room three times before leaving to check on her mom's present. She also picked out Yvonnes favorite cookies to put in the bag. They are shortbread cookies with a jellied center. She kept telling me that she just eats the 'phillip' (filling) part. Yvonne and Lily were coming back later in the evening to celebrate Yvonne's birthday. I told Lily to keep the presents she bought a secret, and she did. I think she told her mom about the cookies though.

The other day when she was over and was on the swing set, I asked her to sing me a song. I said, "why don't you sing 'Jesus Loves Me' like your grandma taught you, meaning your mom. I guess she thought I was telling her to sing a song I taught her, because she quite adamantly said, "YOU didn't teach me, my Grandma Faith did!" She loves your parents so much, and loves being there especially if Kyle and Lexie are there. She really loves it when your mom takes her to the park. She talks about Grandma Faith taking her to the movies, seeing Disney on Ice, and the trips to Florida and Jamaica. She has a memory like a steel trap, and remembers the smallest details. I think she gets that from you.

I am sure that as your family and friends celebrated you and your birthday that you were watching over all of them. Please keep a careful watch over those that need it most.

With Love,
Diane

Diane, Mother-in-Law

November 30, 2006

Hi Mark,

We celebrated your birthday last night with a pizza/salad dinner and then a cake Lily baked and brownies from Michelle. Everyone sent you a message on a lot of balloons.
Harold/Lisa; Eddie/Kristen with baby Tristen; Rich; Jen, Dennis and Peyton; Jason(driving the ugliest minivan); Kathy from S.H.P.D.; Michelle, Steve with Kyle and Alexis; Me and Dad, Nathan, and Steve from Warren. Donnie had to work but called several times. Mayette called too. So did Tina, Archie and my Pastor's Wife. John from S.H. called too. A lot of people just calling to let us know that their thoughts are on all of us.
You would laugh at Eddie taking care of Tristen. It reminds me of you with Lily. It amazing how much a baby changes men.
Anyways Lisa is naming her baby Mark Christian and we could not be more honored.
I hope you enjoyed watching us (you and Mike) last night.
Can you see the blue 76 in the window? Did any balloons reach you?
You are loved by a lot of people.
I love you and miss you.

Love Mom

November 30, 2006

Happy Birthday Mark! We look forward to celebrating your birthday tonight with your friends and family. We know you will be with us in spirit!

Dennis, Jen & Peyton Brozowski

November 29, 2006

Mark,

Lily and I met your mom this afternoon at the cemetery. I had Lily pick out something to leave for the winter. She picked a heart wreath with a blue and silver bow. She also picked out a silver bird for you. She said the bird was building a nest.

When we got home, the phone rang. I was busy draining her bath water and saw the # was a telemarketer, so I didn't answer. Lily came running into the bathroom shouting, "Mommy its daddy, its daddy." I said did someone leave a message for him? She said no Daddy left a message. I told her that people in Heaven can't talk on the phone. She kept insisting. I went and listened to the message on the machine. It was a telemarketer. His first words were "Hi, this is Mark." Was that your sign for us today?

Lily and I just got done with your cake. She had fun "reading" the directions. Just like you, she licked the spatula after we poured the batter in the pan. Although I told her you did that when we made brownies. She had chocolate all over her face!

I went to work today. The kids keep my mind off of stuff. During the last hour that I teach, I looked down the hall and I saw Lily! Laurie had brought her up to the school for a surprise visit. I hadn't told Laurie it was your birthday, so that really brightened my morning.

Kathy is watching Lily for us tomorrow. I asked her if she was ready! Lily is definitely going through a sassy stage, particularly when she is tired. I'm sure they will both do fine though. I can't tell you how much I appreciate having friends like Kathy.

I was looking online the other day at my horoscope. I clicked on the 'compatibility' section. I looked at how compatible our signs our. I started crying when I read, "near perfect couple." The rest of the description was so true. I normally don't take much stock in that kind of stuff, but it was just so in tune with us and how we were with one another. It makes me so proud to know what a strong, loving relationship you and I had. I feel so blessed and fortunate to have had something so beautiful together.

The tears didn't last long after reading that, though. Lily started calling for me. I went up to her room and there she is with her blow up princess mattress on top of her bed and laying on top of both of them! I don't know how she got the air mattress up there, but the silly girl did.

Before bed last night, I told Lily the story about how when you were a little older than her, your mom had not cut your hair yet. You were a tow-head with ringlets at the bottom. Your mom thought your hair was so pretty, she didn't want to cut it. You went to school and the other kids said you looked like a girl, so you made your mom cut your hair! Lily thought that was funny.

Friday night I went out with my sister, Michelle, and Kim for my birthday. We went dancing. I had a good time with just the girls. Saturday, my actual birthday, I spent the day by myself. I got food and then came home and took a bath. I just wanted to be alone on my birthday. It is often difficult to take the time to just 'be.' It's too upsetting to actually slow down and let myself think about everything.

Well, I know that you will be with us tonight as we remember all of the wonderful moments of your life. We will all be blowing out the candles only wishing we had more moments to be with you.

I love you so much. Happy Birthday, baby. xoxoxoxo

Yvonne

November 29, 2006

Daddy,

I love you. I'm cooking cake for you. I'm doing everything for you. And I love you. Happy Birthday and blow out your candles.

nnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnn
nnnnnn5 555nnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnn

Love your princess,

Lily xoxoxo

November 29, 2006

Mark,
sorry I havent written in a while but as you know its not because i dont think of you often. I dont know what to say, the shock of what happened still has not wore off yet and i doubt it ever will. I really wish we could have just one more conversation or night or softball or playstation or disc golf or basically any of the things that we used to do. I want you to know though that i can still feel your presence sometimes stronger than others but i can feel your influence. Your mom is having a tough time as you know, hopefully you can touch her in some way and help to comfort her. Yvonne and Lily are doing great. well not completely... but Yvonne has demonstrated some incredible strength and determination of will, and we are all in awe of, and very proud of her! i am sure that you are too! She is also a great mother but again i am not telling you anything that you dont already know. Anyway i should probably get goin as i am in class right now. Happy Birthday Mark, and tell Mike I said hello, and I was curious as to who is the current disc champ?- Super D

Donald Colpaert

November 29, 2006

I wanted to wish you a Happy Birthday in Heaven. Its just after midnight so its officially "your day"! (I'm not sure of the exact moment that you were born) :)

Last night Yvonne told me that you loved "hanging out" with friends and family for birthdays and other special occasions...(any time actually) just to chill out and have a few beers...So I know you will be at your mom and dads house tonight as we celebrate your life.

You are never far from my thoughts Sawyers. It seems everything reminds me of you. One particular moment stands out alone...I was at a family party and my cousins kids made her a birthday cake. Well, they didnt have enough candles to represent her age so they just tossed a few random number candles on the cake. Mark, I almost fell off my chair....

7 6 1 1 0

IN THAT ORDER!! Your badge and your car...All lit up!
I consider it one of those special signs you send out and I thank you.

I wonder how many other people we could have talked out of going to dayshift?? I wonder how long it would have taken you to come into dispatch and actually SIT and hang out for a while...(chicken!) I wonder about a lot of things, but one thing's for certain...You are truly missed.

Happy Birthday C30!

Kathy

November 28, 2006

My dearest Mark,

I love and miss you so much that I can't stand to even come to this web site. Time has done nothing to lessen the pain I am in over losing you. I am thankful for your friends that have been so kind to us. I am also thankful for Lily and Yvonne. Lily is so much like you. Don't think for a minute that she has to tell me twice what she wants or needs. Honestly she is so darn cute it is hard to not give in the her wants.
Mark, I miss you so much. I have your badge numbers lit up and at night the lights are so bright that if you look you should be able to see them. Their in the window in the family room. It hurst to look at them but I am so proud of you and want you to know how much I want you here.

Happy Birthday and I love and miss you.

Love Mom

November 28, 2006

Yvonne,

I’ve only posted on this site once or twice, and when I did I probably left it anonymous (sorry), but I check this site often to see what you and others have to write. It’s strange how it all still seems so recent. It seems like just this past June - not 2 ½ years ago. As you know, the program from Mark’s funeral hangs at my desk at work, so you and Lily are never far from thought. As I was checking the site today and reading the other postings, I was thinking how I am thankful for you and I thought you should know. I’m thankful that we’ve become friends over the last couple of years and that you’ve allowed my family into your life. I was glad when you accepted my invitation to go to Chicago this past August. Everyone had a great time and it was nice getting to know you even better. I’m thankful too that our kids are friends. I know T.J. really likes to see Lily and talks about her often. Just a couple of weeks ago he mentioned how you and I went to Chicago with Aunt Kelly, and that he stayed home with Daddy and Isabelle, and Lily stayed with her Daddy. I told him that Lily stayed with her Grandma, but he kept insisting she was with her Daddy. I’m sure he was right. I’m sure her Daddy was with her. I know tomorrow is Mark’s birthday, if you need anything let me know.

Nicole

Nicole
SHPD

November 28, 2006

Yvonne,

While I was reading these lyrics, (I saw them on another officer's page) I was literally re-playing the stories you have told me of your and Mark's early days and other conversations that the two of you shared....

Thank you for sharing your memories with me. Mark was in my life for a seemingly brief moment, but I feel as though I knew him forever. It means a lot to me....

And so do you!!

Kathy

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

INDIA.ARIE LYRICS

"Good Man"

I remember the first day
I met you
we were so young
you were a blessing
and there was no guessing
you were the one
Love is so crazy
We had a baby
and said our vows
That's when you told me
should anything happen
I can hear you now
You told me

[Chorus:]
if the sun comes up
and I'm not home
be strong
If I'm not beside you
Do your best to
carry on
Tell the kids about me
when they're old enough to understand
tell them that their daddy was
a good man

First anniversary
remember we
chose a star
And as i stand under it
I can't help but wonder if
You see it where you are
For whatever reason
You don't see the seasons
Change again
Go there with peace of mind
We'll meet on the otherside
Cause true Love don't end
and baby

[Chorus]

Two eyes looking up at me
Pointing to a picture like where is he?
Mamma are you OK?
What did the paper say ?
To make you cry that way
It said your Daddy lived for you
and your daddy died for you
and I'll do the same

[Chorus]

SHPD

November 26, 2006

Mark,

Thanksgiving went well. We asked Lily what she was thankful for and she said her nose. Silly girl. She had fun playing with Alexis. Your mom took them over to the park as well. When your dad started saying Grace, I saw the sun beam through the window really bright. Made me think you were with us.

I started to think about what I was thankful for. Sometimes its hard to do that when we have lost so much. However, it is important to reflect on the positive things in life to keep us all going. First and foremost, I am thankful to God. I often think of the Footprints story, and know it must be so. Second I am thankful to have had so many wonderful years with you. Our love transcends time. Although we were not together as long as we had planned, we are together forever in spirit. That is reflected in our beautiful daughter. I thank God every day for her. She makes me a better person. I also am thankful for my family and friends. I owe much to all of them for their constant and unwavering love and support. They know who they are. tta.

I am also thankful that so many people remember you and our family. This site means alot to me, I still check it every day. I do have one wish though, and that is if people would be so kind to not leave anonymous postings. I know some people find it easier to write that way. However, so much of my life is unknown right now that even the little unknowns drive me crazy. I am forever trying to guess who wrote something and if it was meant for Mark, me, his mom, etc... I spend alot of time writing openly on here and pouring out my heart and soul because I know so many people care about how Lily and I are doing. It's my way of letting everyone know more about Mark and us.

Tomorrow is my birthday. This birthday is harder than the last. I finally realized that it is because I am now older than you. I used to tease you and call you 'old man'. You will forever be 30 now. I guess this birthday is just a reminder that I have to go on without you. I remember the year you were frustrated about finding me a present. You called me from the mall and I told you to pick something you thought I would like. Needless to say, you came home empty handed with an upset wife! The next day at work you sent me a dozen red roses. I was so surprised and happy. You got off the hook on that one!d

My mom took Lily shopping for a birthday present to give me. She was so excited and kept checking on my present to make sure it was okay before she gave it to me. She picked out a beautiful frame with three smaller frames hanging above it. She picked out four pictures to put in it. Three are of her and I, and the larger frame has all three of us at her Christening. I am going to put it on my desk at work.

My only wish for this birthday is to see you in my dreams tonight. I love you so much. xoxoxo

Yvonne

November 24, 2006

Happy Thanksgiving Mark....

You're always on my mind, but today especially. Its a day to give thanks, and as I have said in the past, I am especially thankful to have had the chance to know you and call you a friend. Tough days are ahead for your family and friends, but I will do what I can to make it peaceful for them.

Faith & JR,
You two are also constantly on my mind. I am thankful that you have welcomed me into your family and shared your memories of Mark with me. You are very special people and I cherish your friendship.

Yvonne & Lily,

I tried to call you today to wish you a Happy Turkey Day...I know you had a busy day planned, but I also know its the beginning of a rough patch. I am here for you, no matter the time or place. I love ya!!

Kathy

SHPD

November 23, 2006

Dear Mark,

Thinking of you today and everday as the holidays and birthdays approach. My heart goes out to your parents and siblings as they try to celebrate these special family times without you. AS her mom, I know how terrible it will be for Yvonne. Thank God she has your family with all their love and support for her and Lily. I pray that they can hold each other up during the next few months. Then before we know it, June will be here, and the cycle starts all over again. Please try to let them all know you are with them during these special times, to help ease their pain.

Forever Missing You,
Diane

Diane, Mother-in-law

November 22, 2006