Family, Friends & Fellow Officers Remember...

..."Go Rest high on that Mountain,
Son your work on Earth is done..
Go to Heaven a'shoutin',
Love for the Father and the Son."

Aaww, not Hollywood..I couldn't believe it when I got the call Friday night. Jonnie, you were larger than life, and when you walked into a room, the dynamics of that room changed. You touched so many lives, including mine, and I will miss you terribly. Your smile melted hearts, changed people's bad moods to good, and radiated for miles and miles. Thank you for serving us and protecting us- such a selfless act, and you were a selfless person.

God Bless you, JPD #305...

August 24, 2004

Jon,
When you were with us, you were frequently referred to by supervisors as a "rising star" with a great future in the Joliet Police Department. You are now a "star in heaven". On clear nights we will look to the sky and always remember you.

It was a pleasure knowing you, and has been a pleasure meeting your wonderful family.

Look after your brothers and sisters out there on the street (especially that Afternoon shift - they need it!).

Chief Dave Gerdes
Joliet P.D.

August 24, 2004

Jon,

I will always remember you for the flashy smile, the way you greeted your fellow officers and civilian employees, and the enthusiasm that you had for this job and brought to JPD.

You are an example of someone who truly lived everyday as if it were his last; happy and content.

You have left us to walk a beat in Heaven with your fellow JPD officers: Weiss,Murphy, Barney, Loscheider, Hopkins and Murrin. I know that all of you go out on patrol everyday with the rest of us, watching over us, protecting us.

Even in heavenly sleep you still look good brother.

God bless

Officer Thomas Grutzius #260
Joliet Illinois Police Department

August 24, 2004

Officer Walsh died a true hero. He gave the ultimate sacrifice. You, your family, friends, and colleagues are in our thoughts and prayers. Rest well. You now walk a beat where there is no violence. Only peace. See you on the other side.

First Sergerant Salvatore Torelli
Fauquier County Sheriff's, VA

August 24, 2004

What beautiful tributes and memorials of Officer Walsh. I truly enjoyed the recollections written by Sergeant Sullivan. While I personally did not have the opportunity to meet this fine officer, it is apparent by all the wonderful words written here that he was truly a remarkable, fun loving guy. My heart and prayers go out to you - his family, friends and co-workers. What a bond all law enforcement officers share, that only you can understand. We will remember all of you in our prayers, and ask God's blessings for your safety during your shifts. Thank you all for your service, and Godspeed, Officer Walsh.

Michigan

August 24, 2004

Farewell for now Brother.Thanks to Him who Himself made the Supreme Sacrifice, we who believe will again be together in a much better place, the Thin Blue Line is a forever Blue Line. Rest in Peace & know your loved ones are never alone for we are but a phone call away.

Bob Johnson VA-VI

Bob Johnson U.S. Marshal's (Ret'd)
Blue Knights International Police Assn.

August 24, 2004

A Memorial Tribute



Friday, August 20, one of our finest died. We say finest because he was a young 27 year old man who loved his job as a police officer, and he did his best every day to do that job with honor. We salute his efforts to make the world a better place. We grieve that in doing so he lost his life.

Any person who tries to uphold the laws and bring justice to bear in today’s world in any town, city, county or state in these United States is one of ours. Just as we thank God (or the higher power in your own religion) for our military personnel who protect us as a country, we must give thanks for these law enforcement individuals who basically lay their lives on the line daily when they go on duty to protect our lives in our own little corner of the world, or wherever we may range in a given day. It is not an easy job. Sometimes it is a job where you are given great rewards. Sometimes it is a job where you are cursed, harassed, and belittled. There are many of us who are grateful that these officers persevere through those times. Where we would be if everyone could just run amok, and not have to follow rules and laws?



Sports stars, rock stars, and movie stars are paid millions to entertain us. Although his nickname was “Hollywood” his salary was a pittance in comparison, and he was protecting our very lives. Shouldn’t we question our priorities on a daily basis?

Jon was one of the good guys. He knew how to be a friend as well as a good cop. He helped people move, he made them laugh, he called after an accident to offer any assistance that might be needed, and he was there for them when they needed him. One of the questions has been why him-why a good guy? We never have the answers for those kinds of questions. But isn’t the world a better place and aren’t we lucky because he was here for 27 years?

Today we woke up with tears in our eyes and hurt in our hearts for his family as they faced the second day knowing they would never see Jon again. We can’t even begin to understand the anguish and pain. Our hearts and prayers go out to them in their mourning. We too have a son and a son-in-law who have chosen law enforcement as their careers. Selfish as it sounds we hope we will never face this same crisis. We also hope that it doesn’t take death or crisis for others to appreciate our men for giving of themselves too.



In the tomorrows of our lives may we give daily thanks for the life of Officer Jonathan “Hollywood” Walsh, and all those like him who allow us to live the lives we do because they keep the peace as best they can.

Patti and Jim Ward

Patti Ward, Mother of Officer James "Mar
Officer J. Ward is with the Joliet, IL P.D.

August 24, 2004

To the family & friends of Jonathon, As a police officer of 32 years, I want you to know that the loss of a police officer such as Jonathon is felt all the way around the world by his brother & sister officers, especially from 'Down Under'. May God give you all peace in this time of sadness.

Senior Sergeant Gary EDDIEHAUSEN
Queensland Police Service, Australia

August 24, 2004

Rest in peace brother, you seved us bravely.

Offc. Michael Walker
Tallahassee Police Department

August 24, 2004

Wood,

I don't know how to begin to express how much we will all miss you. You have set a mark in each of our Hearts and You will be loved and missed greatly by everyone.

I still remember the day we were partners riding thru Pilcher Park and We observed a group of soccer players, one kicked the ball thru the un-netted goal as I was driving by yelling "gooooaaalll"....little did i know a second later the ball will roll under a parked car and directly in front of our squad. The look on the players was memorable when I ran over the ball not to mention how quickly u nextel-chirp everyone to tease me about the incident.

Rest in peace brother, A True Afternoon "Cowboy" whom we will love and miss for ever.


"You can't stop us..You can only hope to contain us".

Officer Raul Alvarez #172
Joliet Police Department

August 24, 2004

John-

I wish I could be in Joliet to carry on your memory, but I am doing what you toasted to on Thursday! The Paris Hilton of the Jolie had to go to San Diego and make a better life for herself! I will miss that georgeous smile and hug I got everytime I saw you! You made an impact of everyone you came in contact with and that's what I will always remember about you! Above and beyond anything, you took care of your "brothers", because that's the type of person you are!!! I can't even begin to express how Thankful I am to have experienced the bond all of you share! Your smile will be in my heart forever, and I am so LUCKEY to have had one last laugh with you before I left!! You are a wonderful and genuine man and I will remember every hug and every smile! Thank You for being a friend georgeous!! I will miss you!!

Watch over my boys!!! (I know you will!!!)
Thanks Doll-
Maryn

Maryn Gaynor

August 24, 2004

I will never forget the first time I began working with Jon. When he was new, he was one of those officers that stood out and you knew you would see special things from him. To me, Jon exemplified all that is good and right in this noble profession. I always admired the passion and vigor that Jon served with. Jon's professionalism and work ethic commanded the respect of senior officers. Jon earned the honorable reputation of "high speed, low drag."

As a new officer, Jon withstood and overcame his "right of passage" like no other officer I have witnessed. Jon had the uncanny knack of deflecting all friendly banter and oftentimes making it backfire on those who dished it out. I recall ribbing Jon about his cologne and suggesting that he had marinated overnight in a bathtub filled with it. In his typical "teflon coated" manner, Jon would say, "Yeah!!! You like it?" and even offer you a "squirt". Then, as if the verbal rebuttal was not enough, Jon would totally shut you down with his smile.

I'll always remember Jon's unselfish and caring ways. I remember a night when we needed guys for basketball. Jon volunteered on short notice and managed to buy a pair of shoes in the sector where he patrolled. I still have no idea where he scrounged up those shoes, but they had to be the hardest shoes I have ever seen in my life. Wearing his "tad softer than wood" shoes, Jon suited up so that we all could play. Jon ended up spraining his ankle that night. I just hope he was able to find something strong enough to destroy those shoes when he got home.

I want everyone to know that Jon is an incredible man. I feel sincerely blessed to have known him in service and in friendship. I will admire him forever. I will utilize his spirit and passion as a means of personal inspiration and motivation. Jon, thank you for everything and please, keep smiling down on us all.

Patrol Officer Brian Lanton #299
Joliet Police Department

August 24, 2004

I send out my deepest sympathy to the family, friends, and coworkers of Jonathan. Rest in peace...

sister of Tim Green JPD

August 24, 2004

"When through one man
a little more love
and goodness
a little more light
and truth
come into the world
then that man's life
has had meaning."

Rest in peace my friend. You may be gone, but you will never be forgotten. May you continue to be an inspiration to us all. God Bless you, your family and all your brothers and sisters who miss you terribly at the Joliet Police Dept.

You will forever be in my heart.

Mary Schu PSDII JPD
Communications Center

Mary Schu #829 and wife of Officer Patri
Joliet PD

August 24, 2004

WALSH...THESE PAST FEW DAYS I'VE SEEN AND HEARD HOW MANY PEOPLE'S HEART YOU'VE TOUCHED,BY THEIR TEARS THEY WIPED AWAY, FROM THEIR STORIES BEING TOLD, AND THE "SMILE" THAT EVERYONE KNEW THAT TRUELY WILL BE MISSED.I LAST SAW YOU AT "HEROS" AND THAT IS WHO YOU ARE, WITH ALL OUR OTHER FALLEN HEROS LOOKING AFTER US.YOU HAVE ALWAYS BEEN SO SWEET AND DEAR TO ME.I WILL ALWAYS REMEMBER THE NIGHT AT SAMMY'S...THE WORDS YOU HAD SAID TO ME "JULIE, DON'T WORRY I'LL WATCH OVER MOE" AND SO YOU WILL INDEED.

OFFICER AVILA'S WIFE, JULIE
JOLIET POLICE DEPARTMENT

August 24, 2004

I had the pleasure of working with and supervising Jon while he was employed by the Burr Ridge Police Department.

When I first met Jon I found it hard to believe that such a baby-faced kid was old enough to be a cop. He was, however, wise beyond his years.

Jon was always very well mannered and extremely polite. He also had a wonderful sense of humor, an infectious smile and a kind word for everyone.

Jon had little difficulty with any assignment. He took pride in his work and always put forth a 110% effort. Jon was what some people in our profession call a ten percenter, one of the 10% in law enforcement who make 90% of the arrests.

When Jon and his FTO rotated to my watch he was nearing completion of our FTO program. Jon was taken aback when I returned a report he had completed for correction of a few minor errors. He attached a cocky note to the revised report, confidently telling me that he sure this one would meet with my approval. When I returned the revised report to him, because it contained even more errors then the first one, his pride was wounded but he ultimately got the job done.

The following week, I told Jon’s FTO to have him see me privately after roll call to discuss his handling of a recent incident. When the FTO later gave him this instruction the veteran officers who were nearby immediately seized upon the opportunity, telling the rookie this could mean only one thing – he had screwed up, and was being “written up”. When Jon and I later met he was uncharacteristically downtrodden. After learning that his “write up” was to document a job well done in making an arrest he was elated, until he had to face the laughter of his comrades who were waiting outside my office. Jon knew he had been had, and genuinely laughed along with everyone else.

Upon completion of FTO Jon was permanently assigned to my watch. I met privately with him to explain my expectations. To help him understand that our relationship had now changed, he was now a full member of the team, I told him that in private one-on-one settings, outside the view of the public and brass, he should feel free to call me by my first name. To further get the point across, I told him not to think of me as a grizzled old supervisor, but instead, as a “cool older brother”. I concluded our meeting by telling him, “Welcome to the Shift”. Jon’s reply was, “Thanks, Sarge”.

Jon also made an impression on members of our community. His citizen contacts were overwhelmingly positive. He had the unique ability to leave each person he dealt with, even traffic violators and arrestees, feeling that they had been treated fairly and professionally.

When I last saw him a couple of months ago, Jon greeted me by saying, “Hey Sarge”. Same old Jon.

I’ll miss you little brother.

Sergeant Kevin Sullivan
Burr Ridge Police Department

August 23, 2004

Jon (Hollywood) -
When I started here at JPD three years ago I considered you a co-worker. I never thought that we would be as close as we were. You will always have a place in my heart. Not only as a co-worker, but also as a GREAT FRIEND. I will miss you Jonnie Walsh and think of you whenever I call sector 13. You will be missed and never, ever be forgotten.

Kacey Chizmark PSDII
Joliet Police Department

August 23, 2004

John Boy,

I sit and write these words, still in disbelief that you aren't here to grace us with your wonderful smile, quick wit, and helping hand.

As our newest angel, I am thankful that you will watch over all of your brothers and sisters. You have touched so many lives and there are many officers (sworn or civilian) that will take what you've added to theirs and carry it with them every day.

When I think of you and what you've added to my life, I can smile through the tears. You are greatly loved, sadly mourned, and will be remembered with a vast admiration.

#880 Ray
Joliet Police Department

August 23, 2004

Policeman's 23rd Psalm
(Author Unknown)

The Lord is my Shepherd, I shall not want,
His comforting hand reduces fear to naught;
He makes me walk through streets of crime,
But He gives me courage and peace of mind.

He leads me by still waters in the path I trod,
And He says in Romans I'm a "minister of God,"
He leads me in righteousness as He restores my soul,
For His name's sake He keeps me whole.

When I walk through death's valley, right up to the door,
I will fear no evil, for He comforts me more;
For Thou art with me every step of the way,
As thy rod and thy staff protect me each day.

He prepares a table, especially for me,
As I work daily among life's enemies;
He gives me authority to uphold the law,
And He anoints my position in the midst of it all.

Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me,
Each day of my life through eternity;
As I long to hear Him say, "Well done...,"
When I lay down my life, my badge, and my gun

August 23, 2004

FASTER than a speeding bullet...MORE powerful than a locomotive...ABLE to leap tall buildings in a single bound... LOOK , UP IN THE SKY...IT'S A BIRD...IT,S A PLANE...IT'S "HOLLYWOOD" Badge #305!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!To a GREAT OFFICER and an even BETTER FRIEND we will MISS you dearly but never forget you!!!!!!!!When my father passed away earlier this year I rested easier believing he was in a better place ,but now I rest assured knowing you're walking HEAVEN'S BEAT!!!"FLY SAFE" HOLLYWOOD , AND WATCH OUR BACKS.....Pipe 306

OFFICER DANIEL WOOTON
JOLIET POLICE DEPARTMENT

August 23, 2004

To the entire Joliet Police Department, family, and friends my deepest sympathy goes out to you. Unfortunately our department knows what it is like to lose a brother. We just lost a brother, Deputy Dane Johns, at the beginning of the month to a fatal gunshot wound. The only thing you can do is take it one day at a time, and a lot of prayers. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. God Speed Officer Walsh

Deputy Robert W. Owsley
Williamson County Sheriffs Department, Marion IL.

August 23, 2004

hollywood...i'll never forget the time i saw you sitting the chair at regis hair salon getting your hair highlighted with that blue dye. you flashed me that trademark smile when i stood there laughing at you. i'll never forget that.

may you now walk among angels.

Michael L. Cochran
Joliet Police Dept

August 23, 2004

Jon,
I still can't believe everything that has happened. You were a great friend, an outstanding police officer, and a wonderful person. I wish that I could see you out with your friends again, smiling and laughing. Jeremy and I will miss you very much.

Valerie Cankar

August 23, 2004

To: The family; loved ones; friends and department members: A POLICE OFFICER’S PRAYER: O, gentle Lord ! Keep the day/night watch with me .As I begin my tour of duty, I ask your protection from all mental, physical and spiritual harm. Sustain me with the knowledge that I am doing your work, endeavoring to keep peace among your people. Help me to be just as I enforce the law without prejudice or favor to anyone. May I be courageous but not reckless in carrying out my duties. Let me respond to all calls for assistance with haste realizing that so many are dependent on me for life and safety. Support me with your consoling power when I am tempted to think that no one really cares and that I am taken for granted. Sustain in me the conviction that so many do care and are grateful for my presence. Grant that I may be loyal to my partner and my fellow officers, and that I may back them up effectively when called upon for assistance. Lord, I ask that I may return safely after my tour of duty, to my loved ones and those who love me. I pray that I may be a good and honorable police officer; and after my tour of duty is over here on earth, may I enjoy the peace and happiness of heaven that you have promised to those who serve you well. AMEN. *** REST IN PEACE***Sent to you by the father of Master Officer J.D.Koeppen, Capital City Raleigh North Carolina; Trooper D.C.Koeppen, New Jersey State Police and Cadet Officer A.M.Koeppen,Wilmington North Carolina.

Chief ( retired) Douglas A. Koeppen
Washington New Jersey

August 23, 2004

Rest easy bro. We'll take it from here. You're guys didn't let you down. They got him and his wife. You should be as proud of them as they are of you.

Tell the man up stairs to keep an eye on us, it seems this is happening too often.

Can someone tell me why over and over again these guys drive when they know they shouldn't? I see it every day, and it keeps happening. When is a judge in this state going to wake up and lock someone up for driving while revoked?

I know when they'll do it. They'll do it when the someone that gets killed is a judge! Then, they'll be all over it.

We have it from here buddy, your tour is over.

Det. Joseph Melone
Cicero Police Department

August 23, 2004