Family, Friends & Fellow Officers Remember...

wow dan it has been like 4 months i cant beleive it i miss you very much i still keep in touch with many from the department i was sitting here on Thanksgiving day and thought of a great friend and man that i miss dearly the other day i was at a restaurant and saw the french dip and it reminded me of you since you would always order that with tartar sauce on the side anyways my heart goes out to gabi,josh,dion, and the rest of your family during the holidays i miss our days on patrol you were a great role model a damn good officer and a really good dad and husband youre missed dearly

David MartineZ

November 24, 2005

Nels, I speak to you with a heavy heart as Thanksgiving approaches. I offer sympathy and my prayers to your mom, dad, brother, Dionne, Josh, and Gabs, who will not have you at the dinner table for this family holiday, or any to come. I give thanks that I became your friend.

Rick Turner #997
San Leandro PD

November 22, 2005

My friend, if I would have known, I would have done what you wouldn’t have wanted me to do! I would have lied to you and said law enforcement isn’t what it’s all cracked up to be! I would have said anything, anything to keep you away from this job. Of course nobody knew or they would have said anything also. All I knew was that I was proud of you as a friend first and then as a new partner in fighting crime. You always had a special way about you. I admired the way you treated and thought of people. So admirable, it was incredible and I wish I always saw things the way you did. Then there was your intelligence that I wish I had, I was truly amazed at what you could remember and teach, but only very few people are as gifted as you were. I would look at you and your family and thought he is living a bit of heaven here and loving the only job you could love. It was really refreshing to see you live.

Our last meal together that night was the best dinner I had in my life. It was the company I kept, the company I always couldn’t wait to keep. Your last words to me as we departed was, “Well I’m going to go do real police work”. I remember your smirk nobody else could imitate and my smile at your enthusiasm.

We drove as fast as we could! I wish I could have been there Dan, all of your brothers and sisters in blue do, all of them. Your awesome song of life is not over, it’s in me, it’s in so many people that you touched. I know this for a fact, because they have come up to me and told me so. I miss you so much and don’t know when it will let up. Probably never! I will live my life and take those things you taught me and go with it, I promise. I had always wished I could have been your FTO, but you were one up on me, you were truly my FTO in life. Thank you my brother for every compliment you gave me and for the encouragement. When I take my first flight solo you will be there, right there with me!

Salute to you!

Your friend for ever

Mario A Marez

Officer Mario Andrew Marez
San Leandro Police Department

November 14, 2005

Dan -

It has taken me this long to actually work up the internal fortitude to write. In the 7+ years that I knew you, we had a very unique ride. First, meeting you and Dionne via my wife ...funny how the girls paired off, while you and I talked planes, computers, and other miscellany.

Then in the following years, our weekend chess matches (where you regularly handed me my hat), some things like Mission City Coffee, the constant refills, and a King's Gambit will always trigger memories...

The late nights at your apartment in Campbell, working on your home computers, while you hung on every word, watched every screw turn, asked a bazillion questions ...pal, you never had to provide the coffee and pizza as payment, your company and desire to learn were all the recompense that I could ever have wanted.

Your quickness of uptake in tech rolled itself into my getting to hire you into the IT arena, working with me every day. The ideas, reflections, and good times shared at our Friday lunch over at Chevy's made the whole week of putting out network fires well worth it.

Once our IT paths parted, and you went into Law Enforcement, we saw less of each other, but we still tried to get together once a month, for lunch, coffee, or pretty much any excuse to get out of the office. I loved hearing about some of the things you were doing, and can't tell you how much I enjoyed giving you even more tech knowledge to help in whatever capacity I could.

I'll miss you forever, and count myself blessed to have been your friend.

John Tarbuskovich, Systems Engineer

November 3, 2005

Wow it seems i visit this page a lot these days. Dan I still cant beleive that you are gone. My ride alongs were always great with you. I always remember you keopt me safe but also let me have fun and make me feel like a brother officer sitting right next to trusting me with your radio and computer. I remember one night you had to take over the radio and passed me the phone to speak with Dionne. I told her I was going to spend the night and she laughed. I hope that the Niemi family is doing well unfortunately I am not with the San Leandro PD anymore but I am here for the Niemi family whenever they need me. Rest in peace my brother for you will never be forgotten you have made a serious impact on my life and others

David Martinez

October 30, 2005

To the family of Officer Niemi...

My deepest condolences go out to you all. You are in my thoughts and prayers....

Tiffany

October 27, 2005

Officer Niemi will be remembered as a great man that gave his life protecting a city that he loved.

I was looking through some old pictures and found one of a Halloween party last year where Officer Niemi responded to because we were getting a little rowdy.

I'm not sure if the picture will come out or not.

I'd like to give my condolences to his family and let them know that I am sorry for the great loss that they've endured.

Nancy Fanene
N/A

October 25, 2005

Dan

This week was a very tough week for your family but they persevered in the quest for justice for you. Your family seems to have a lot of wonderful support, and they will continue to be cared for and supported in the future.
Rest in peace. You are loved, missed & remembered.

Phyllis Loya, mother of Larry Lasater,
Pittsburg PD, eow 4/24/05

October 20, 2005

I know your pain, I know your loss. It has been over a year since my nephew, Officer Isaac Espinoza, was shot and killed, EOW: April 10, 2004. My heart goes out to each and everyone of you, his wife, children, and family, both the Niemi family and the SLPD family.

We will never forget.
MaryAnn
SFSD

Sgt. M. Poni
SF Sheriff Department

October 20, 2005

Dan
25 years ago, I started my Police career with the San Leandro Police Department. Even though you were only with us for three years, I feel as if I have known you all my life. I remember one night, we were talking about horses, and you told me that your wife, Dionne, was also into horses. I remember telling you that I had a free ticket for a weekend in the City of Industry, to a horse seminar, and asked you if Dionne would be interested in going. You called Dionne, and the weekend was set. I remember you telling me, Mike, Dionne can go on one condition. I said,"what". You have to keep her safe while she is there. I remember telling you, no problem, I promise. We kept her safe, right up until we put her on a plane for San Jose. The weekend was great, and my wife Barbara, and I fell in love with Dionne. We did what you requested Dan, and the offer still stands now. Barbara and I are here for Dionne, Josh, and Gabby, and we will be here for them as long as they need us. I promise. I miss talking with you Dan, in the locker room, and I miss seeing your smile. I wish I could have been there for you Dan. I'm sorry buddy. I miss you, and I will never forget you. I will always love you as a friend, and a brother officer.

Officer Michael Rose #175 (Retired)
San Leandro Police Department.

October 13, 2005

I come to this page often but I have not been able to leave a message until now.

I still shed a tear as I read through these reflections and think about you and the good times that are lost to us all.

It has been a long difficult year for our agency but the most difficult time was the loss of you.

I took the job at the DA's Office but not a day goes by that I don't remmeber you.

I try not to think about that night, I try to think only about the times before. Working the dog watch with you and all the others was truely a lot of fun.

Listen you know I never told a lot of war stories about the job, now when people ask me about my time at SLPD I tell them about the good peole who work there and especially about you!

You had a good run, albeit short, you touched us all and I will never forget you.

There are many things that people will say about us when we leave this world but the best thing anyone can say is
"He was a good man who always did his best."

Dan you were a good man who always did his best.

Peace
"Sarge"

Deputy District Attorney Autrey James
Alameda County District Attorney's Office

October 9, 2005

Happy Birthday, Dan. I wish we could celebrate with you. You're missed so much. You are forever in our hearts.

D Balelo - Dispatcher
San Leandro PD

October 1, 2005

The crew is out working hard tonight.
Thoughts of you have been weighing heavy on our minds recently.

I looked at the clock just a few minutes ago and realized its just after midnight, it is your birthday.

I miss you still and the pain is hard to handle sometimes. I know that are keeping a close eye on us ... I feel you every now and then.

Thank you "Brother Niemi".

Jailer Thompson
San Leandro Police Department

October 1, 2005

Thinking about you a lot today, Dan. Longing to hear one of your witty comments. I and the rest of your SLPD family misses you greatly.

San Leandro PD

September 29, 2005

Rest in peace Ofc. Niemi. You will never be forgotten.

San Leandro Citizen

September 17, 2005

"Dan" Just thought i would say "hello." You are being missed and we greatly love you and your family. You will always be in are prayers.

John 16:20
"I tell you the truth, you will weap and mourn while the world rejoices. You will grieve, but your grief will turn to joy."

officer w.p.collier number #254
san leandro police dept.

September 14, 2005

While it is no consolation for your loss, our heartfelt sympathy goes out to the family and fellow officers of Officer Niemi.

While no member of our agency had the privilege to have known him personally, we are certain that he has found a place in heaven through his selfless service to those he swore to protect.

Rest in peace officer; those of us who remain will cover your post on the thin blue line.

Medicine Lodge Police Department
Medicine Lodge, KS

September 7, 2005

I believe in Karma...and evil knows that it exists, but denies its being and strength, yet, it will not go away. May it haunt him and linger over his every step...what goes around, comes around. Karma is working in favor of you Nels, and he knows it. Keep your family strong and united, do not give up hope. There is more of us than there is of them.

fellow officer
bay area

September 6, 2005

Thank you Officer Niemi for keeping us safe from bad. God bless you.

Renny Kassel
California Citizen

September 4, 2005

Brother Niemi, you paid the ultimate price to protect the citizens of our great country, and that makes you a hero. Rest assured your death will never be in vain for those of us who work the streets will never forget those of us who were lost to them. RIP my Brother and God bless.

Officer L. Bailey, #5303
Carlsbad Police Department, CA.

August 31, 2005

"Brother Niemi", thats how it would start before every shift. Dan had his locker just a few down from me, and every day before line up, I'd walk in to see him polishing his boots. I'd greet him with a "Brother Niemi", and Dan would would sharply respond with "Tommy-dogman". Thats how I'd start my shift.

I'm proud to say that I know you Dan, that I was able to work with you and call you my friend. We will keep an eye on your family for you, because you'd have done the same for us.

I miss you buddy.

K9 Officer Tom Rosenlind
San Leandro Police

August 30, 2005

It seems like just last week that the administrative Sgt. called me in to his office and requested that I conduct a background on an applicant by the name of Nels "Dan" Niemi. I began the background as I had several others, first scheduling a face to face in person meeting to get a feel for the applicant. Dan met me at the Bayfair substation, and I immediately could tell that Dan really wanted to be a Police Officer. I can recall times that I would phone Dan up regarding certain things that were needed, paperwork, certificates etc., and unbelievably would soon see that little purple Honda Civic park in front of the station, and Dan bringing me whatever I had requested of him. I still have no clue how someone can come from 25 miles away in rush hour traffic and be at the stion in 20 minutes! I must say the background that I did on Dan was one of the funnest if there is such a thing, and actually ended up missing the day to day calls from him regarding his progress and if anything had changed. One morning I received such a call from Dan at 11 am, and reminded him that we had spoke just the night before at 8 oclock, and that no nothing had changed! I also had the pleasure of being one of Dan's Field Training Officer's, and clearly remember one call very well which signifies the pride that Dan took in Officer safety. One day we were called to a home on Joaquin avenue regarding a missing 3 year old boy. The childs 90 year old grandmother had lost sight of him, and was quite frantic, as he had been missing for over 15 minutes. Dan walked down from the elevated porch and began making a walk through of the driveway and backyard, before checking the detatched garage of the approx. 75 year old home. Dan soon emerged from the backyard carrying the young child, and brought him up to the front porch where he was reunited with grandma. She was very thankful and emotional, clothed in a light pink colored bathrobe and furry slippers. The lady put her arms around Dan attempting to show her hearfelt thanks, but Dan tactfully backed away, keeping in mind what he had been trained to do. Dan was probably the most Officer safety conscious recruit that I had ever trained, showing me things that I had never known, amazing me that a recruit could have so much knowledge in a certain area.

Dan you will never be forgotten, Love you brother

Officer Francis J. Moynihan #219
San Leandro Police Dept.

August 29, 2005

We thank your brother for sharing the fun and loving experiences that you had while growing up. Let God deal with the negatives that lie ahead, and may your family and friends remain strong with every passing day. Please watch over your brothers and sisters with stars and badges, reminding them to always "look up". When you guide them through their tours of duty, remind them to always "watch the hands". God bless you and yours...

Off. P.C. Brown
San Francisco PD-Bayview Station

August 28, 2005

Dan,

I know that you will never read this; you already know what I am about to say.

You are the 22nd friend or co-worker that I have buried in my 24 years as a police officer. It never gets any eaiser.

I still feel the pain of the early morinig call when we lost David Haynes and Leonard Garcia (EOW 12-28-1992), and vividly recall the loss of other men with whom I have trained and worked, both here and abroad. But your loss has hit me in ways that I had never imagined.

I feel responsible for your loss, for telling you that "real men" don't just sit on the sidelines and talk about change, they "wear blue" and make it happen.

I knew that you would make a great policeman. I know that it was your choice, but, I still share the guilt felt by your dispatchers, officers and supervisors for not being there to help you in your time of need.

We trained hard, but it was not enough. There are some things that are beyond our ability to respond. There are some things for which no amount of training can prepare; your death is one of those things.

As I carried your coffin up those church stairs, I reflected on our wives' discussions about the dangers of the job, and the possibility of command staff visiting them the middle of the night with tragic news. We all agreed that it was better for a man to die on his feet, then to live on his knees, and that you only truely live when you are allowed to do what you love. And you loved police work. We all do!

As I sit here at my desk working on the fourth homicide of this weekend, I am strck by a truism that we often repeated . . . There is an inverse relationnship between your ability to survive a gunshot injury, and your worth to humanity. Your death (and your murder's survival) proves the statment -- you were truly a worthwile human being -- he is NOT!

I take no solice in the fact that he has been arrested and that your family will have to suffer through his pleas for life, and the million excuses his attorney will raise, while asking for the oppertunity he took from you, the oppertunity to see tomorrow.

I grieve for you, for your family, for the entire law enforcement community and for all who have suffred your loss. With the thought of the trial looming over our heads, I take peace in the belief that, in all the universe, you and your murderer only had to meet once, and that was on 07-25-2005; because, where you are now, he never will be!

Rest well my brother.

Detective Steve Harris #1167
Richmond Police, Homicide

Detective Steve Harris #1167
Richmond (CA) Police Department

August 23, 2005

Rest in peace brother..gone but never forgotten. My condolences to the Niemi family and to the San Leandro Police Dept. God bless you all.....

Former Det. J.Shaw
Albuquerque Police

August 23, 2005