Family, Friends & Fellow Officers Remember...

Hey Howie,

I wanted to stop in and say hello, it has been a while. We are still really busy with several investigations going on at once. Last week we did a sweep to pick up several from one of the investigations. I of course thought of you and your training as we prepared to go out and pick up the suspects. It's like I can hear your voice saying "come on ya Bozo, put your vest on." One of the guys in my unit was not wearing his. He left it in his car and had jumped in to mine to head out to the house. When I found out he did not have his vest, I turned around, took him back to his car and made him put it on. It was a low-level search/arrest warrant but I could not live with myself if something would have happened. God I miss you brother. I would give anything to have you back. Thanks for having my back.

Yots

Det, Greg Yotsuya
Ceres PD

November 14, 2006

Hi Sweetheart.
Missing you as always...well we spent our Halloween hanging out at our house, we gave out Big candy bars to the little kids and even the not so little kids this year.
Linda, Tonya and Cody hung out with us too. We were having a ball with Cody. I can not get over how fast he has grown.
Sam and Brent are hunting so it was just us girls. We wished there had been more " trick or treaters" this year.
Times are changing thats for sure. Seems like yesterday
everything was...well nicer, better and some how a lot more fun, who knew it would be so so so not the same? I think kids today get short changed! Not just on this but on lots of stuff. That makes me so sad. I know you would agree. Okay I will stop, cause I don't want to be "debbie
downer". We did enjoy hanging out!
I can not wait to see you again love you Soul mate

kathy
wife

November 1, 2006

bon jour, love.
you're with us everywhere. here and in the azure sea. you swim with us, walk with us, dream with us. we feel you in every cathedral, every spritual monument, each tranquil garden, and with the fresh sea breeze. we miss you more every day, but you help us to get out of bed and to believe in the time we'll all be together again. love you to our cores, our souls.
c. & m.
villefranche-sur-mer
south of france

October 14, 2006

Hey Howie,

I don't know why this all happened. I've looked for answers through God but it still isn't clear. Life isn't fair I guess.

I feel guilty that I'm able to kiss my wife and son everynight before they go to bed. It's not right that Kathy and your kids are without you.

You are missed brother.

MGR

September 26, 2006

Hi sweetheart,
missing you every second of everyday as always! Well today we cleaned the sideyard, went to the dump and took some of my stuff to the goodwill. It felt good to get some more work done around the house. I even organized our bedroom, it was looking in need of attention. We got a new puppy last week, she is a sweet 10wk old boxer. I know you would love her. Sadie is happy to have a friend to keep her busy!
She is very smart, she potty train in two days with only a few small accidents when we were not watching her like we should. I forgot how close you need to watch puppies. Micky named her London; it fits her well. Bryce seems to like London as well. Both bryce and Micky are doing good. Bryce thinks he"s got a security job at the college. He's hoping to get some experience towards his police career. He knows you want him to get his Bachelors Degree before he starts the police accademy, so don't worry. I know you are as proud as me of both of our kids. I tell them often!
They miss you so and talk about you daily, remembering things you taught them and the fun we had with you here. Our days are surely not the same...but we are sticking together supporting and helping each other in a way that I know you would approve of! Someday we will all be together again! Can't wait!!!
love you Soul Mate

kathy
wife

September 23, 2006

Howie:

I just came back from the COPS Siblings retreat and was blessed to have met your sister Carmen...I want to thank you for watching over us. I know you've been with my brother Bobby,,,,,,,,,,watching all that was happening around us, I knew it was you and him. Thank you from the bottom of my heart. Your blessed with a wonderful sister,and she with a wonderful brother...........by the way, thanks for helping me find my ring....


"Job and duty called you some place higher, somewhere up the stairs ...Into the fire.......May your strength give us strength...may your faith give us faith, may your hope give us hope, may your love give us love...

Tom Cabral
Brother of Lt Robert Cabral
Swansea, MA Police Dept
EOW 11/05/05 24W 25

September 11, 2006

HI sweetheart,
just wanted to say I miss you!! Everyday I see you in so many people that we know, Bryce and Micky I know still make you proud just like they do me. We have been busy getting ready for school. I am glad you are always watching
us from above. We love you so much You are still shaping our lives each and everyday. We thank you for that and know we are truely blessed.Til we see you again
love you soulmate

wife katbhy

August 16, 2006

Hi Howie, I was just thinking of you and wanted to say hi. The retirement party went good and we all had a good time dancing. Micky had a great time and really danced the night away. We know that you were there with us.
We're always thinking of you. Love you

Shawnna Yotsuya
Ceres PD

August 10, 2006

Dad,
As you know Ron & Sammy's retirement dinner is tonight & we know that you love to dance. So we all will be dancing our legs off for you.I am sure you will be with us in spirit.love you always & forever <3.

Love Mikaela

Mikaela Stevenson
Daughter

August 4, 2006

I’m Free

Don’t grieve for me, for now I’m free
I’m following the path God has laid you see.
I took His hand when I heard him call
I turned my back and left it all.

I could not stay another day
To laugh, to love, to work, to play.
Tasks left undone must stay that way
I found that peace at the close of day.

If my parting has left a void
Then fill it with remembered joy.
A friendship shared, a laugh, a kiss
Oh yes, these things I too will miss.

Be not burdened with times of sorrow
I wish you the sunshine of tomorrow.
My life’s been full, I savored much
Good friends, good times, a loved one’s touch.

Perhaps my time seemed all too brief
Don’t lengthen it now with undue grief.
Lift up your hearts and peace to thee
God wanted me now; He set me free.

July 18, 2006

Hi sweetheart,
we miss you so much! Well we made it through another Holiday. We talked about how you took us camping or up to your parents house every Fourth of July. We always had so much fun! This year we went to the Modesto parade, where they honored both you and Earl Scott along with ten young
men and women that died fighting in the war. Some were as young as nineteen. My heart keeps breaking with each loss.
So many brave souls, that I'm sure you have meet since you been in Heaven. There was about three thousand people that
lined the streets, all to honor each of you! Your SWAT team
drove the Swat truck a "Bear" in honor of you, they let us ride with them. The kids thought that was cool. Sammy and Linda rode in the parade too. They drove a Army Jeep that was pretty cool also.
In the evening we lit off fireworks with Sammy, Linda and Ron. Some of the Fire and Rescue guys came by to eat
some Tri-tip dinner, they showed up in thier big fire trucks. I'm sure our neighbors got a kick out of that!
Micky loved it because it was like when you used to have
a party. I think everyone enjoyed themselves. We sure do miss you being here with us, even though I know you are here in spirit.
I know you can feel our love
can't wait to see you again, love you soulmate

kathy wife

July 6, 2006

Hey Howie,

Just stopping in to say hi. You are not forgotten.

MGR

MGR

July 6, 2006

Morning Sweetheart,
You are the first thought that pops in my head everyday. I know it,s because when I open my eyes I am wishing that all this was just a nightmare. When I see you are not next to me, I turn to my lord and ask him to get me through another day without you by my side. And He always does!
We went to a Giant's game with some of our CPD family.
They put the names of the Officer's that were killed in the line of duty from 2004,05 and 06 on the big view board
The kids and I did not get to see it because we got stuck out on the coastguard boat. However the fist boat did get to be there, Michell Gray and two of her children got to go out on the field, I'm sure Cameron thought that was GREAT! He is such a cutie! They are an amazing family and I am glad that God put her in my life,even if we don't see each other much; I know we share a special bond because of our love for our men and the loss that we both feel.
I have been thinking about taking the kids somewhere
fun so they can just relax! I am not sure where yet, so if you have a great place in mind, send it my way,,,You were always our leader, so it is harder than I thought to plan
a trip without you!
Til we are together again love you Soulmate

Kathy wife

June 29, 2006

Howie,

Not a single day has passed since I left the department that I haven't regretted it. Working with you and all the others made me a better officer and when I learned of what happened I was devastated. You were a hero to me with the way you conducted yourself and put everything on the line for your fellow man. You are forever a hero for being there for your brothers and making the ultimate sacrifice to do what you were sworn to do. There never was an officer like you before and there never will be again. Ceres and the world suffered a devastating loss when you were taken from us and I would give anything to have been there for you and Sam. I always wonder every day if things would have been different. I guess we all wonder that huh? God Bless You Howie and continue to watch over us. I will never be able to hear American Pie without it hurting.

Former Officer
Ceres PD

June 23, 2006

Hi sweetheart,
missing you as always! Well we dedicated your wildlife grove on Sat. There was a great turnout as expected. I know God let you see it. I think it is one of the most peaceful places I have ever been. It is so you...every part of it! I know I will be there often.

Micky is starting summer ball. She plays this weekend and is looking forward to it. I know she will hear you when she is out there. Thank you for being such a great Dad!
Fathers's Day is the same weekend, so it will be good to have something to do. We send our love and a Happy Father's Day, to you in heaven. Hope you can have some fresh crab and steak, like you always had down here.
I miss surprising you with goodies. You are in my thoughts
every second of everyday, and will be till we are together
again. love you soul mate xoxoxo

Bryce is doing great. He is going to take the summer off
and help me get some of our major chores done. He is always ready to help me out. I am sure you are very proud of him! Everyone tells me what great kids we have. I tell them it is because of our teamwork and that you were a wonderful example of how to behave and still enjoy life. We are working together to make you proud. You showed us how to live right! We will never forget what you told us
we love you so much !!!

kathy wife

June 13, 2006

Hi Howie,
I check in and read the thoughts posted occasionally and love reading how wonderful you were to Kathy, the kids, your friends, and fellow Peace Officers. It gives me tremendous relief knowing there is a comforting place for all those who loved you, especially Kathy and the kids, to go to to reflect on life. I was honored to be there today at the Wildlife Grove dedication. It was peaceful and gave you the honor you so deserve. BTW, Kathy and the kids are strong and beautiful souls. (They also have kept their sense of humors. :o) ) You would be so proud of them
With the utmost respect, Sue Slattery

Sue Slattery (aka: Olson)
Kathy's cousin

June 10, 2006

Hey dad,
I had a wonderful birthday yesterday and I just wanted to tell you that I missed you there with us, but I know that you were watching from heaven.linda and sammy came with us to dinner at olive garden.After dinner we went to your wildlife grove.It was so peaceful.we told funny story's about you, and sammy had some good ones, but because I don't want to embarrass you I won't write them down.haha.We went back home and sam got in the hottub and I went swimming.After we went swimming we sat around the heater and talked for a while.We had some more funny stories about you.It was a good birthday but of course we all know they were way better when you were here.I luv you dad, always and forever.<3

mikaela stevenson
daughter

June 9, 2006

To SGT. Stevenson's family and friends...
I would like to give you my deepest sympathy on your loss but thank you for blessing this community with such a great man and officer. I am a Ceres resident and had the privelage of meeting your loved one on a rideout with Ceres P.D. and when I heard what was going on that night in January on my police scanner I felt sad to hear Ceres had lost one of its finest gaurdians. I can only imagine what pain was brought to you who knew him better than me. As my career in law enforcement grows I can only wish to be such a brave officer as SGT. Stevenson. Thank you for standing strong! God bless you and everyone around you!

Turloock Police Explorer

June 3, 2006

Hey Howie,
Its Kalani again just stoping by to say Hi. Kids in my class wanted me to tell you Hi. My dad got back from D.C. He said he liked it alot.He got me and Michael some old money, a coin,& a shirt. Well just wanted to say that bye.
Love
Kalani

Kalani Yotsuya
Friend

May 24, 2006

Sgt Stevenson:
It's me again saying hello and letting you and your family how thankful we are for all your sacrifices. You are a member of a very special brotherhood. You might have worn the national uniform of the US Armed Forces and the the "Blue" of Law Enforcement or you were the one to protect our loved ones while we were away fighting to keep this country free and strong. You are the type of person who protected the families of soldiers stationed in God-forsaken countries. Rest well knowing that we felt that our families were safe with you on the beat while we were away. The cold nights in a fox hole and the steaming marches through a tropical area were easier knowing that our loved ones were safe back home thanks to you. I run out of words to truly honor you, but you probably smile and say, "No problem." I work only blocks from the place where so many people honored and will honor you forever. This inspires me to affirm that you will never be forgotten. I am not only your colleague, but also a greatful person for your sacrifice. Thank you again, Stevenson Family for allowing me to intrude a little, but after meeeting you, you will forever be special to me. Hasta pronto, Sgt Stevenson. Never stop smiling. Another Californian from Orange County, Sid Sanchez

Officer Sid Sanchez
US Mint Police, Washington, DC

May 23, 2006

Hi Sweetheart,
I miss you! Well we made it through DC, it was hard but worth it. Our kids did great as usual. I know you were very proud of them as am I. They are well grounded in their faith and know they will see you again in heaven.
They told me how proud they are to have such a great Dad.
You as well as all the other Officers were wonderfully honored. We could see how loved each of you are. Thank you so much for being my partner and helping raise our two special, loving, smart and strong children. There is know other person that could have done a better job. I see you in them everyday. I see your smile on Bryce's face. I see your playfulness in Micky and your ability to forgive in both! They keep me going and remind me to move forward with each new day.
I love you always and for ever Soul Mate!xoxoxo

wife kathy

May 21, 2006

When you meet a LEO speak to him with respect,don't berate him for giving you that speeding ticket you deserved.Thank him, look into his eyes and see the person.Remember to thank him for all he does for us.For you may be the last person who speaks kindly to him before he gives his life doing his Duty.Pray for him and his family.

May 20, 2006

Sgt Stevenson:

I had the privilege to meet part of your family in Washington, DC during the ceremonies honoring you and 164 brothers and sisters who gave all for all of us. May God have you in his reign and I wish your family can achieve peace and tranquility. That will not mean that you will be forgotten. People like you never are. Thank you, Stevenson Family for allowing me to write these humble words. Carmen, everything you said about your brother is true. With much respect, Sid Sanchez

Officer Sid Sanchez
US Mint Police, Washington, DC

May 17, 2006

Hi sweetheart,
Time is just flying by... we got back from Sacramento last Friday and we were all so tired. Everything was wonderfully done for all of you and the families. We met quite a few other families. C.O.P.S did a great job, they took care of all of us and helped us through each day. We are getting packed for Washington DC. We miss you so very much! It is still hard to absorb fully some days that you are in heaven. I know we will see you there so we keep walking forward. I wish heaven had a phone so we could call you at least, then it would be like when you went away for hunting or school.
I know silly thought. We will let you know how DC goes.
Til then love you Soul Mate

kathy wife

May 10, 2006

AWAY
-James Whitcomb Riley

I cannot say, and I will not say
That he is dead. He is just away!

With a cheery smile and a wave of the hand,
He had wandered into an unknown land.

And left us dreaming how very fair
It needs must be, since he lingers there.

And you-oh you, who the wildest yearn
For the old time step and the glad return-

Think of him faring on, as dear
In the love of There as the love of Here;

And loyal still, as he gave the blows
Of his warrior strength to his country's foes-

Mild and gentle, as he was brave,
When the sweetest love of his life he gave

To simple things; where the violets grew
Pure as the eyes they were likened to,

The touches of his hands have strayed
As reverently as his lips have prayed;

When the little brown thrush that harshly chirred
Was dear to him as the mocking-bird;

And he pitied as much as a man in pain
A writing honey-bee wet with rain.

Think of him still as the same, I say;
He is not dead - he is just - away!

Anonymous

May 7, 2006