Family, Friends & Fellow Officers Remember...

I recently ran across this quote and thought of Shawn:

"Live with intention. Walk to the edge. Listen hard. Practice wellness. Play with abandon. Laugh. Choose with no regret. Continue to learn. Appreciate your friends. Do what you love. Live as if this is all there is."-Mary Anne Radmacher

Shawn was such an outstanding example of how to live our lives. His memory continues to influence me daily in how I interact with others.

On this 2 month anniversary of Shawn's death, please know Jennifer that you, Jordan and Maddie remain in our thoughts and prayers. Shawn and his good works will not be forgotten.

Jodi Greenstein

November 6, 2005

Dear Shawn and Jennifer,

I love you with all my heart as Grandma Dorn would say. When I envision you in heaven, Shawn, I think of the story (picture we see of Jesus) sitting with the children on his lap and by his feet. The scripture as I recall tells us how his followers tried to keep the children away so the adults could be near him. Jesus' response was no, "let the children come to me." He loved the children like you always did. Whenever you were in the presence of a child you talked and interacted with them treating them as very important little people. You certainly did that with your precious Jordan and Mattie. On the last Sunday we were together as family some of the kids wanted to go to the park across the street and of course that included Jordan. You did not try to find someone that could take Jordan so you could stay back and visit with the adults. You wanted to share this experience with your son at the park. Before you left for the park I remember the living room was full of people chattering and you were on one end of the couch and I was in the arm chair with Jordan standing between us. I was asking him a question trying to get his attention and of course he was pretty distracted. But you were focused on this teachable moment and leaned forward and ever so gently but firmly placing your hands on Jordan's shoulders you said, "Jordan, you need to look at your Grandma when she is asking you a question." As I repeated my question Jordan answered as his Daddy had instructed him.

I know there are not tears in heaven and that is good. But I want you to know there have been many shed here on earth for you for your absence in our lives is felt everyday. Jordan helped Grandma dry her tears a couple of days ago. He is such a bright, sensitive little boy. We had just finished vacuuming and I was feeding Madelynn when Jordan asked where the vacuum cleaner was. I responded by telling him I put it away in the closet in Mommy and Daddy's bedroom. So he went to check it out and returned to me saying, "Daddy talking." My eyes welled up with tears and Jordan walked over to the coffee table picking up the box of kleenexes and as he walked towards me began pulling out not just one, but two and three as he probably knew one would never do with Grandma's tears. Thank you, Jordan, I love you with all my heart and Mattie too.

Love,

Mom & Grandma Vander Poel

Mom (Grandma Vander Poel)
Mother-in-Law

November 5, 2005

Taking some time to reflect upon what I know and have learned because of having Shawn and Jennifer in my life, I feel so very honored and blessed to know both of them.

When Jennifer and I worked together, I witnessed their courtship (more like Shawn's pursuit, ha ha) and the love that blossomed between the two of them. Since Jennifer and I shared an office, I was able to enjoy the never-ending vase of flowers that Shawn would send to his love. When he proposed, I heard the first of many romantic, sweet, and funny stories that describe the life Shawn and Jennifer shared.

Because of the Shawn and Jennier, I have learned that there is no limit to doing what you need to - to make sure the person in your life knows how much you love them. Whether it is sending a note in their lunchbox, or presenting a flower once a month - do it. Say it. Feel it. I know that I take more time now to let those in my life know that I care about them.

I have also learned to make time for my family. Jennifer's father told me that Shawn and Jen would plan out each day off, so they wouldn't waste one minute of their time together. They scheduled quality time, creating memories that molded Madelynn and Jordan's character, and will live on in Jennifer's heart.

I realize now that knowing Shawn has impacted my life, maybe more so now that he is gone. I will continue to honor him though my actions - living closer to God, loving deeper, and valuing each moment lived. There are no words to appropriately thank you for that, Shawn. But, Thank You! Thank You! Thank You!

Ericka Heid

November 4, 2005

Shawn-
I knew you for many years, but will never forget the significant change I saw in you when Cindy and I traveled to see you and Jen in Honduras. There was such a light, a calm and a genuine peace about you as you shared your PC life with us.
A few days ago I pulled out the photos from that trip. (I had to giggle at the photo of you in the ambulance with the neck brace...considering we found out later that they had put it on backwards!!) There is an absolutely beautiful picture of you and Jen sitting in your makeshift computer lab in Concepcion de Maria. Jen is sitting on your lap, and like in many photos, your hands are intertwined, and the joy on your faces is indescribable...you were beaming! That photo is such a symbol of the one-ness the two of you shared. You were a great pair from the beginning. You spent many formidable years together, pursued life-changing adventures together and established a unique life for yourselves and your children together. Unique because you and Jen are among the most generous, selfless individuals I know. This was a prominent facet of your marriage- always looking to make the other feel supported and loved. It is these small gestures that have now become public knowledge and the impact contiues to ripple throughout the city, state and country. You must be amazed. I am amazed and proud when people ask about you and your marriage. It is certainly something inspirational, and something to which many people now aspire.
Shawn- you have left a legacy. I am saddened that we will not have new memories with you. But I assure you that we will have new memories of you as we continue to be motivated to do something with our lives, and to continue celebrating your life.
Yesterday I sent Jen a quote that I have in my cube, and it reminds me of you:
"Success is loving life and daring to live it" Maya Angelou

You were definitely successful, my friend!

Love,
Andrea

Andrea Bach

November 3, 2005

I did not know Shawn well but I knew of his love and devotion to Jen. I know how happy he made her. They seemed to have a very rare relationship built on respect, so many common interests and the ability to bring out the best in the other. You guys made it look easy.


I thank you, Shawn, for your devotion to your profession as well. Before this, I don't think I ever stopped to think about the danger that police officers face every day on the job. It humbles me and I think of you and Jen and the kids often. You truly will be remembered as a loving husband, a devoted father and a hero to our community.

Megan Nuthals
Jennifer's friend from college

November 3, 2005

My Dearest Cousin,
We had so much fun growing up together- didn't we? I didn't know how lucky I was until I became an adult. All of our childhood memories have been flooding back to me. I always looked up to you when I was little. I love my memories of our families spending lazy summer days at Silver Beach. Shawn, you were so funny and such a goofball- even when you and Mark were trying to set "firecracker" traps for Nicole and me. I can just see you and Mark laughing at us even now. Nicole and I would have done anything you asked just to spend time with you. I'll always remember water-skiing and how you ended up hitting shore and coming out of your skis only to do a perfect summersault and land like it was no big deal. You had such class and grace, even back then! Although I only saw glimpses of that silly little boy you used to be in your "adultness", I was in awe of what a responsible, respectable, and honorable man you became. I am so proud to be your cousin! I am thankful for all the summers, all the holidays, all the birthdays, all the wedding showers, all the baby showers, graduations, and other important events throughout the years that we spent together with our families. In recent years, it became so apparent to me that you were very multi-talented. I am moved by your photography- you left such a legacy behind through your pictures, especially of your beautiful wife and children. Most of all, Shawn, your love for Christ inspired me. Yours was faith-filled life well lived. I am sure that when heaven was opened for you, God said, "Well done". Erik and I promise to pray for Madelynn everyday as you had entrusted us to be co-Godparents. We were honored when you and Jennifer asked us and we will hold true to helping guide Maddie in Truth. The void that has been left in your absence is to large to fill, to deep to cross and to wide to see beyond but you are here in spirit in so many ways. We love you, Shawn. We miss you, Shawn. We will never let your children forget the the wonderful father you were and the great legacy you left behind.
Always,
Cousin Jennifer

Jennifer Cedarblade, Shawn's Cousin

November 2, 2005

I am in awe at the talents one person can have. I remember when Shawn first told me he was "self-taught" on guitar. My first thought was-amazing. After pondering this awhile, I thought if Shawn can do this so can I and did but with an instructor.
Mostly, I'm awed by Shawn's character. He truly "Loved the Lord God with all his heart, soul, & strength and loved his neighbor as himself." I feel the best way to honor him is use his example in how we now live and who we are!

Mary Mortier
Jennifer's aunt

November 2, 2005

Today, November 2nd, is the Feast of All Souls. I pray for Shawn today in a special way remembering the ancient prayer of the Church, "Eternal Rest Grant Unto Him, O Lord. And let Perpetual Light shine upon him. May his soul, and all the souls of the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen.

MJ Stasik

November 2, 2005

Shawn,

There is not a day that has gone by since your death that I have not thought about you. And usually it is most of the day. I only wish there was something I could have done or that there is something that I could do. No you were not perfect, but you were pretty darn close. I miss you, Shawn. You were so good for Jennifer, for Jordan, for Madelynn, for all of us. There are so many things that I want to say, but the words just are not there right now. The things that help me the most about all this unbelievable craziness is to be able to read about you and Jennifer and Jordan and Madelynn and to talk about you. I will write again. Love, Larry

Larry Vander Poel
Father-in-Law

November 1, 2005

Hello everyone,

I have such great memories of Shawn, and as I mentioned at his service, he was an inspiration to so many of the passions I have pursued. It seemed like every time my family got together with the Silveras for a holiday get together, Shawn had started playing a new instrument, was writing a new song or had something cool to show me on his computer. All he had to do was set his mind to something and he could master it.

I will try to remember Shawn's great "can do" attitude as I take on new challenges in my life.

Sincerely,
Brian Johnson

Brian Johnson, cousin

November 1, 2005

I still can’t believe Shawn is not here with us. I think about it every day. I remember that night I was already in bed and got a call from my Mom who was crying over my friend and family. So tragic and still trying to understand why it happened and why it happened to such a good person. A comforting realization is that I believe he is still helping everyone. The day of Shawn’s celebration service changed many lives including mine. How powerful of a message for one person to change the lives of many. He taught us by example how to be better people, to reach out and love and not talk bad about anyone. He showed that a simple smile could say a thousand words. A song that was sung was entitled “I Can Only Imagine.” I have heard it many times but on that day gave new meaning to my life and hope it has made new meaning for others too. I was driving down the road by myself the other day and this song came on the radio. I had tears running down my face as I was thinking about Shawn and where he is now. I think the one thing that helps people cope with a loss it knowing where their loved one is. I know Shawn is in Heaven standing or singing or even dancing with Jesus. What an amazing site that would be! No, it does not take the hurt or pain of not having Shawn here but it does give some comfort. We miss you Shawn but we also know you are still here apart of many changed lives.

Shelly S.

November 1, 2005

I just wanted Jennifer to know how proud he was of her when little Madelynn was born. I saw on their website that she was born and sent an email to say congratulations. Shawn happened to be online and answered back right away to tell me how incredible his wife was and that she didn't even use any drugs! I told him that was how us Catholic girls were- tough! Anyway it just made me smile to see how proud he was of his wife (as well as his newest little miracle!) and that he was truly amazed by Jennifer's strength.

Cheryl Robertson

October 31, 2005

Shawn –

Every time I visit this page I feel like I was just hit in the face and have to be retold what has happened, I don’t believe it and then I have to accept it. Some things just don’t make sense to me. How we can live and then one day have the life taken out of us?

Shawn – you weren’t perfect and none of us are, but you were a great person and our lives are much different now. There is a void that will never fully be filled in me and many others. Thank you for all the great times we had and the words of wisdom you shared with me. Thank you for all you did and what you stood for. Thank you for Jordan and Madelyn. Thank you for giving your life for others. As you look down on us realize we miss you and want you back – I am not sure if this will ever make sense to me but I do find it amazing to see how far your loss has spread. And how many people can be affected by the loss of one human being. It gives me hope for our country – it has made me proud to be American and see our community become as strong as any group of people I have ever seen come together. Thanks for showing me all of this.

I love you Shawn

Love

Adam

Adam Vander Poel
Brother-in-law

October 31, 2005

Shawn was a wonderful husband, father, brother, son, and friend. Every day I think about how much he is missed by everyone, and I pray for healing, and peace for his family. Shawn was a true man of God, and he said it... You never know when your time is up. But he was ready whenever God called him home- Not many of us can say that. Til we meet again Shawn... And Jen, when you read this, give yourself a hug- from me. If I could, I would give you one every day! He will never be forgotten!

Tara O.

October 31, 2005

"This is a testimony of a life well lived. This is proof that one person can make a difference."

As I sat in the church during Shawn’s funeral and heard the priest speak those words, I was overcome with emotion. More so than any other homily I have sat through in the Catholic church. So many times you hear during this part of mass, the priest talking about if you are ready. Will you be ready when the Lord comes? Will you say, Lord, I have done your will and I am ready to go home with You? And after each Sunday homily of the such I walk away thinking, I’m not ready. There is so much about myself that I want to change, so many things I want to say or do differently, respond instead of react to hard situations, the list goes on. But during this particular mass, I realized I do not have the time. I do not have the time to sit around and ponder what type of person I attain to be, I do not have the time to react negatively and then think, I wish I would have handled that situation differently. As Father talked about doing our duty daily, he didn’t mean start next week, start after the New Year, start when you are ready. He meant start now.

I miss Shawn so much. I miss the thought of him, the smile he so willingly gave, his zest for life, his kindness, his true heart, his love for my sister. I miss his silliness with my kids and miss the fact that next time at great grandmas’s Uncle BoBo won’t be there to play hide in seek in the basement. I miss my favorite photographer and knowing that now, the only privilege I have to work with his photographs are ones that he has already taken, without the anticipation of being on a photo shoot with him and not being able to wait to see the outcome of his work. I was in awe of Shawn’s talent.

As I talk with Jennifer, or sit in silent moments with her, I am sad. I am sad that he his gone. I am sad for the memories that will never be made. I am sad I did not get to know Shawn better than I had.

One of the only things that brings me comfort in Shawn’s going Home, is that went he arrived at the gates of heaven, he was welcomed with open arms and God probably said proudly, I am proud of you and your life well lived.

Deanna Ekholm
Sister-in-law

October 31, 2005

A HERO THAT WAS CLOSE TO ME

A hero was sent to the heavens
by God to protect and serve
a sacred place
He was known by many as a husband,
father, brother, son and man of honor

His body has left us
But his soul remains in all of us
Knowing him as a true hero

We ask why did Shawn have to be the one?
WHY?
Because he was strong, loving
and a servant of God

It was his duty he accepted
It wasn't because he was a bad man
It was because he was the right man
for the job

Jennifer, he will always be
with you in spirit
and of course in all the pictures
I believe his talent and hobby
that he had in photography
was a gift and a sign

This is not the end for you
You have Madelynn and her
resemblance of Shawn
and Jordan as the man and
protector of the house
as Shawn has always been

This hero is still alive
Where one day we will meet again

Dedicated to Shawn Silvera Sept. 2005
Written by Sarah Vander Poel

Sarah Vander Poel
Sister-in-Law to Officer Shawn Silvera

October 26, 2005

My family would like to extend our deepest heart felt sympathies to the family, friends, and fellow co-workers of P.O. Shawn Silvera. You are in our thoughts and prayers during this very difficult time. We would like to let law enforcement officers everywhere know how much we appreciate them for putting their lives on the line everyday doing their jobs to keep their communities safe. May God watch over and protect each & everyone of you!

Gail M Pabst
Aunt of fallen Detroit P.O. Jennifer Fettig eow 2-16-04

October 26, 2005

"Love is a choice. That is what we always said. Love is not a feeling. Love is a choice. I choose each day to wake and love you. I choose to love you even when I don’t feel like loving or giving or helping or serving. I am committed to the relationship and dedicated to making it be all God intended it to be. This was our philosophy on love." Journal Entry Oct. 6, 2005

I love you, Shawn Silvera. Today and always...I love you. Thank you for loving me. It's very late and I could not sleep, so I wanted to visit your memorial page and let you know that you are on my heart. They tell me you have fallen and in truth so have I.

Jennifer Silvera
Wife of Officer Shawn Silvera

October 22, 2005

We were a better department with you in it. We will go to work everyday knowing that what we do reflects directly on you and your memory. We will make you proud.

Officer Kelly McCarthy
Lino Lakes Police Department

October 22, 2005

God Bless You Officer Silvera, It is an Honor to be going into the profesion that you gave your life for.

Sgt. Andrew Brinkhaus
Shakopee Police Explorers

October 20, 2005

Shawn, I never realy understood the bond that police officers have with one another. After seeing the entire LLPD come together last sunday in your honor truley showed me the depth of your guy's friendship. Your wife Jennifer is amazing and strong, and I know every day you will watch over her as well as your two children. The love that you two shared, is a love like no other. I will always remember the last time I saw you, and the big smile you gave my little boy, you looked at him and said "Now there is a future football player" You will reamin in our hearts forever. You have truley left a deep imprint on this world! Love, Amy,Dustin,& Dawson...xoxoxoxo

Amy McKee

October 20, 2005

Thank you for your service.

Ofc. S.L. Coffman #15174
California Highway Patrol

October 15, 2005

Shawn,

I just heard the tragic news a few days ago and I'm still in shock. Ironically, I was recently cleaning out my closet and stumbled upon some old photographs of us goofing around Coon Rapids PD. Seeing the pictures brought back memories of the many good times we shared. Like the night we went out for my 21st birthday, the many days we spent on the lake/river waterskiing and the nights rollerblading. When I found the pictures I wondered how you were doing. Little did I know, I would get an email asking "Did you know this guy"? a few weeks later.

You were a good friend and you are one of the few people I've known who really would "Give you the shirt off his back". I'll never forget my first days as a CSO in Coon Rapids. You were my FTO, and I was amazed at how seriously and professionally you dealt with everything we encountered (even if it was scraping a road-kill raccoon off the street). You had a compassion that is rare, and from what I've read here, you never lost that. You have set the standard for all of us, as law enforcement professionals, and more importantly, as men. I cannot express how much I regret losing touch with you over the years, but I will always hold you memory close to my heart. Rest well my brother. You will be missed.

Detective Scott Callender
Mesa Police Department, Arizona

October 15, 2005

This website is such a wonderful tribute to a Shawn. I did not have the privelage of knowing him. I see love & kindness in every picture of him. I look at all the fingerprints he has left on so many hearts and am very touched. Thank you for your service and for the fingerprints you have left of me.

October 15, 2005

Officer Silvera,
I met you only a couple of times, and am saddened that it wasn't more. The honor of your life far outweighs the honor of your death. You stayed commited to your oath to keep peace for the citizens of Lino Lakes & Anoka County and made the ultimate sacrifice. I leave you with this my brother:

"In valor there is hope...and in service there is valor".

Your service is over, your valor is forever. May the heavens be your kingdom of rest.

Dustin Reichert, Deputy Sheriff (retired
Anoka County Sheriff's Office

October 11, 2005