Family, Friends & Fellow Officers Remember...

Rest in peace

Detective S. T. Alexander
Columbus Division of Police

January 8, 2006

My Friend

My Friend when I think of you.
I think of all that we've been through.
All the times we argue and fight,
I know deep inside that it isn't right.
I, then feel bad and alot of pain.
It feels like I've fallen from the sky like the rain.
I love you dear friend with all of my heart.
But now that you're gone I've fallen apart.
I'm getting better as the days go by.
I wish sometimes this was all a big lie.
I pray to you every night.
It's like you're my fire, a burning light.
My dear friend, I miss you alot.
I still wonder why you were put in that spot.
I know you're in a place much better than here.
Watching and helping me with all of my fear.
Our friendship my dear friend,
we will have to the end.
Friends til the end is what we will be.
Someday we'll be together,
together you and me.

January 8, 2006

it doesn't seem like a year has gone by. it only seems like days. i think how unfair it is to your family to have you ripped away so suddenly. i know a lot of people view you as a hero, and you ARE, i just wish you were here to tell the tale. i wish God hadn't decided it was your time to go and had taken someone else instead. i keep thinking it's a bad dream and i will still run in to you and be able to catch up on all our goings on. you will tell me how happy you are to be a hubby, a daddy, an uncle and how Grandma and Grandpa are spoiling all the children. i just don't want you to be gone. i visited your grave this week - even with the headstone it doesn't seem like reality.

i miss you

January 7, 2006

HURST,

Tracy and I visited your Mom, Dad and sister and we got to see Malia but it was short because Malia was sick. I was holding Rebekah and Malia said: "baby." It was so cute.

Well, yesterday was of course one year since you were taken from us. It's still so unbelievable and sad. Lots of thoughts run through my head, especially the guilt of only seeing each other a handful of times each year since you moved to Columbus. It makes me think of this song by Tim McGraw:

“My Old Friend”
Written By CRAIG WISEMAN, STEVE MCEWAN
My old friend I recall
The times we had are hanging on my wall
I wouldn't trade them for gold
Cause they laugh and they cry me and
somehow sanctify me
They're woven in the stories I have told
And tell again
My old friend I apologize
For the years that have passed since the
last time you and I
Dusted off those memories
But the runnin' and the races and the
people and the places
There was always somewhere else I had to be
And time gets thin my old friend
Don't know why, don't know why
Don't know why, don't know why

My old friend this song's for you
Cause a few simple verses was the least
that I could do
To tell the world that you were here
‘Cuz the love and the laughter will live
long, long after
All of the sadness and tears
And we'll meet again my old friend
Goodbye, goodbye
Goodbye, goodbye
My old friend
My old friend
Goodbye, goodbye.



Still missing you and thinking about you everyday.

Semper Fi,

Brandon

Brandon C. Walton
Toledo, OH

January 7, 2006

I know you would be so proud of Marissa. I called her last night to see if I could offer any great words of wisdom or comfort at the end of the day. By the end of the conversation she was helping me understand some of the events of Brandy's death with her perspective.

As I talk with her and hear stories about your lives together, I laugh at your humor as a couple. It reminds me of the humor and laughter Brandy and I had as a couple. I know from the stories I have heard, from Marissa's wonderful sense of humor, and her wonderful caring way your daughter will grow into a beautiful, independent young woman that you will be so proud of...

Thank you Bryan. I beleive it is destiny that all of us were brought together to support one another in this path that God chose for us. I hope you, Brandy, and Larry all enjoyed the Buckeye game together....God is gathering a big tailgate party of some might fine police officers up there.

Sara Winfield

January 7, 2006

P.O. Hurst: Although I have never met you, I feel compelled to leave a note. This evening, I read through many of the reflections that have been left over the past several months.

Although it has now been a year since your heroic passing, you have obviously left quite an impact on the lives of so many people.

God Bless your wife and daughter as their time of need will continue for years to come. Your family, friends and the members of the Columbus PD are in our thoughts and prayers.

Rest in Peace, Never forgotten!

St. Louis County Police Department
St. Louis, Missouri

January 6, 2006

Bryan,It has been a year today that you left us.It is still so hard to believe you are gone.I think about you everyday.We were at your substation today and it felt good to know that everybody there loved you.You were so lucky to have worked with such a wonderful group of people but I'm sure you already knew that. I understand now why you loved your work. We went to the Bank afterwards and left flowers and talked to everybody.Rob was working and Gilbert had put a really nice tribute up outside the Bank.I think it was a really tough day for everybody but it was nice to see everybody and talk about you.(Good stuff,honest).Malia is getting so big and she is a doll.Your Mom and Dad were going to visit with Marissa and Malia,I'm sorry I couldn't stay and visit too but I was afraid the weather would get bad.Maybe we can plan a get together soon.Your Mom is really having a tough time so maybe being with Marissa and Malia is just what she needs.We all miss you so much and you are always in our thoughts and our hearts. I love you,Aunt Joy

Bryan's Aunt Joy

January 6, 2006

Bryan,
It's been a year since your have gone to heaven, and I still think about that day every day. Now we lost another brother, Ethan Collins Fairfield County S.O., and now I feel the emotions all over again. I will try to keep Tennis in line, but you know what a hard job that is.


Bill

Officer William Lang
CPD

January 6, 2006

Bryan, you don't know me. And I have written here once before when I came across thsi website by accident awhile ago. But I know of you and your wife. Sounds odd but I think of you from time to time. I guess I just feel so bad for what happened to you. I wonder what you see and what you think now. You were a good man and still are a good man. I am sorry for your friends and family, for their loss. I read everything that was written today to you. You still have your best friends. I like seeing that. Made me smile.I know it was your job but I am truly sorry for what you went through that day. You are very sadly missed Bryan.

January 6, 2006

Officer Hurst -

Today marks the one year anniversary of your passing. While this milestone day breaks the scab that has formed over your family and uncovers a wound that will never fully heal, it is also an opportunity for all of us to once again reflect on what a hero you are to not only the patrons and employees of the bank, but to the rest of the grateful citizens of this city. While your passing certainly stings every bit today as it did one year ago, I view the reflections posted on this page and I am comforted to see what a strong bond your family, friends, and loved ones all have. Your wife, as strong as she appears to be, certainly seems to have the comfort and support from everyone whose lives you touched. You need not worry about her ever feeling alone or desserted with the support system she has. I hope someday your daughter realizes how invaluable her presence has no doubt been to her mom during the last 365 days. A year has passed, but the gratitude I have and the admiration I feel for you has not and never will. Continue to rest peacefully.

Anonymous

January 6, 2006

Hey Bryan,

They had a dedication in your honor today at 2/18 sub, the plaque is great. Your family was there, & Marissa and Malia. Malia is so cute! Donnie spoke, along with some others, it was very moving. You would have been proud! Till we meet again on the other side, GO BUCKS!!!!!

Ofc. Dan Jones #2079 (Med. Ret)
C

January 6, 2006

GOD BLESS YOU ON THIS DAY AND ALWAYS!

January 6, 2006

Bryan,
I didn’t know you but I was one of the paramedics who responded to the bank on the day that you were tragically taken from the many people who loved and respected you. It has been 1 year since that tragic day but it is a day in my life that will forever be burned in my memory. I came very quickly to realize what a great person and what a great HERO you were. I just want to take a minute to thank you and your family for the great sacrifice you made to protect others. You are a true HERO.

CFD

Fire Fighter
CFD

January 6, 2006

God bless you, Officer Hurst, and may He also comfort those who still mourn your loss.
You are missed.

MC
Dublin, OH

January 6, 2006

Bryan,
One year has passed so quickly. It feels like it was just yesterday when we all received the tragic news. I can recall every vivid detail of the morning of January 6th, 2005. When I walked up to the bank this morning I pictured you grabbing your hat out of your Mustang before you went inside. I remembered talking to you in length about your daughter Malia and also your new bureau job you were taking in Juvenile. I remembered driving away... getting to go home. It was tough to think of those memories today. They are always there....everytime I walk into the bank....but today was different. I didn't think that the "one year" would impact me the way it did. I figured that the same feelings are there 365 days a year, what would be different about this day? I was wrong. What you did to protect those defenseless people ran through my head all morning long. It started because several officers (including first responders from Reynoldsburg and Whitehall) came to the bank to put out a sign in your honor. Then the girls from the bank all gathered getting ready to go to the dedication at 2/18sub, and I could see each one of them reliving every terrifying moment in their minds. But then they replayed the part where you took action....and although sad, you could see that they all feel safe because of what you did. They remember exactly what you did and how you didn't stop until each and every one of them was safe. Then your family came in to the bank. For many of them it was the first time inside the bank. I just pray for each of them as they continue through this tough time. The "one year" does not mark and end for the memories. You are always missed and will never be forgotten. Watch over us all and God bless you.

Ofc. Robert Sagle #2254
Columbus Ohio Division of Police

January 6, 2006

"These things we do, that others may live."
We remember the life you gave for the lives you saved.
Rest easy.

Columbus Division of Police

January 6, 2006

Dear Marissa,

I just wanted to leave a quick note to let you know that I am thinking of you an Malia today as you reflect on the events of the past year. I met you briefly on the YWBB mid-2005 and it turned out that we had quite a lot of things in common. My husband Bryan's EOW is 12/13/03, but his birthday is the same day as your Bryan's EOW.

Please know that my thoughts and prayers are with you and all of Bryan's family, friends and co-workers today.
God Bless You,

Juli Verkler
Widow of Ptlm. Bryan S. Verkler EOW 12/13/03

January 6, 2006

It's hard to believe a year has passed. Rest in peace brother, rest in peace.

Ward
CPD

January 6, 2006

Thank you for the ultimate sacrifice, laying down your life for a friend!

Anonymous

January 6, 2006

Marissa,
Thinking about you today, as I do everyday. I am very proud of you. I love your positive outlook and your sense of humor. I am sure that those attributes have been such a strength to get you through your personal tragedy. I just wanted to write and let you know that I think that you're an amazing girl!

Today, as always, we at Ohio Cops remember Brian and his sacrifice. Everyone tends to look at the one year anniversary as his death as a time to remember. But, as you know, our day to day lives are filled with memories. It's those quiet days where we need the most strength. As you know, I am here for you always, as well as the rest of us....not to mention that we are completely awesome at board games. Love you. mmm bop forever!!!

Krissy Vazquez-Ensoll
Ohio Cops

January 6, 2006

Bryan,

I can still remember the last conversation I had with you. I remember you coming to pick Malia up that day and scooping her up out of my arms and fondly calling her "Toot". Your eyes sparkled as you held her in your arms. She had a huge smile on her face as she looked at you. Three days later I got a phone call saying you were gone. I hung the phone up, looked over at Malia, as she was sleeping, and thought to myself, "My God, she will never hear you calling her "Toot" again. I called my sister and she had to shout at me, because all I could say was Malia over and over again. She thought something was wrong with her, until I told her what happened. Shortly after Malia woke from her nap and I just held her and cried. The other kids could not figure out why I was crying. Each time a parent came to pick their kids up, I cried as I told them the news. I called my ex-husband that night and screamed at him, because you loved your baby so much and he could care less about his son. I told him how unfair that you were gone and he was still here. I honestly wanted to scratch his eyes out. Over the next few days, I felt numb and helpless. I felt awful because I wanted to help but didn't know how to help. I was worried about Marissa and Malia.
That Sunday as my sister and I went to the calling hours, I was overwhelmed at the people who were there. As we were standing in line, I saw Sherri holding Malia, my heart was breaking. A few minutes later all your co-workers, in uniform, came from seeing you. They stood along the wall and there were tears streaming down their faces. At that moment I got a look at the "thin blue line". As we went into the room where you were, I again felt helpless, as I saw Marissa so bravely, greeting everyone.
There is alot I have learned over the last year. I never go to bed without telling my son how much I love him. Being a mom to him means much more to me now.
Malia has changed so much, she is such a happy little girl. She is so smart and can say anything you ask her to say. We are working on colors and she can say purple and yellow, which are the 2 hardest colors for most of my kids to say. I love it when Malia comes up to me and gives me a hug. She gives great bear hugs for such a little girl. She can sing the ABC song, she gets to G and after that it is all humming.
I will never forget you, and will always remember as Malia's daddy and as a hero. There is a song I listen to that talks about a man's dad being gone and he is up in heaven dancing with the angels. I got the cd and I listen to the song and think about you up there dancing with the angels, and watching over your family and friends.

Theresa Lazlo

Theresa Lazlo

January 6, 2006

Bryan,

You are not forgotten and you are thought of often. Please continue to watch over us as we work in this crazy world.

Lennig-114, officer
Reynoldsburg Police

January 6, 2006

Today is going to be a very rough day for many of us. It is hard to believe it has been a year since you paid the ultimate sacrifice. We all miss you and want you to know you are and will always be a true HERO... You saved so many lives in the bank that day... I will place a badge/memorial sign at the front entrance this morning so all going in will see your not forgotten... Keep watching over us from above in heaven. Take brother Ethan Collins under your wing as you guys walk the beat in heaven!!!

Officer Jim Gilbert
Columbus PD

January 6, 2006

Bryan, Just got done visiting. I Wanted to get there before tomorrow because I am not sure if I can handle everyone else being there. I remember the phone call, ironically I had just pulled into a 5/3 in Westerville. I can not believe its been a year. Continue to watch over us and the rest of the CPD. With Love always and forever. You know who this is

a friend

January 5, 2006

Dear Bryan,
It is hard to believe that one year ago tomorrow you left us. I will never ever forget Marissa's phone call to me while at work. I can remember the horror and shock I felt just hearing the news. My staff tell me that it was the only time they have seen me speechless. I honestly thought my heart would break when we finally arrived at Grant Hospital and saw Marissa, Donnie, your parents, and the many, many police and law enforcement "brothers" that were in the ER. As a mother, you want always to protect your kids; regardless of age; from any heartbreak, pain, and suffering. I felt helpless in not being able to do "something" to ease the emotional pain of everyone in the ER that day. (Always the nurse, you understand.) Most importantly, I wanted to take Marissa's grief into my own heart and help her. For the next 72 hours it appeared as though time stood still. I went through the motions of accepting flowers, food baskets, condolence cards, and phone calls --- too many to mention and all expressing sympathy. It wasn't until calling hours and your funeral service that I realized the finality of this grave situation. The tribute and honorariums given in your honor were impressive. The outpouring of support and kindness from CPD, friends, family members, coworkers, and even strangers was overwhelming. This "Officer Down Memorial Page" again reflects that your memory is alive and that you are loved by so many. You are, and always will be special to me, Bryan. Your sacrifice in the line of duty has taught me many life lessons. I no longer take the simple pleasures in life for granted. My priorities are much clearer now. My respect for law enforcement is stronger. I know you watch over from above and help me when I feel discouraged. I know you see what a wonderful job Marissa has done raising Malia, and what a bright, beautiful daughter Malia is!! Life is about living in the present, and I also know you see what a terrific job Marissa has done getting on with her life given the tragedy of January 6, 2005.
You will remain forever in my heart, and I will look forward to telling Malia stories about her wonderful "Daddy" who died a hero. Zowie lives with me now, and she misses you too. When we visit you tomorrow, I will quietly say a prayer and ask that you continue to watch over us, and I will thank you for being "my favorite son-in-law".

Love,
Sherri

Sherri A. Marzick
Mother-in-Law

January 5, 2006