Family, Friends & Fellow Officers Remember...

My dearest son David,

I love you and miss you sooo very much and this terrible loss has broken my will to go on. My health has been failing since this has happened and I fear that I'm gettig worse not better. My deepest pain and suffering has not had enough time to heal and most likely will never heal.

Someone said to me that "the world will not stand still without David, that life must go." That might be true for some, but not for me. Our family's world has come to a complete stop without you in it. It is good that your wife and children are helped in their mourning for you, We do not have such a big group, but it is not needed. The strength that our family has has been inherited by you. The vaules that we have, have been instilled in you. You have followed in the family footstep of serving your country. Your grandpa served in the army and was at Pearl Harbor when it was attacked. It was ironic that you were buried on Pearl Harbor Dr. very fitting. Your father served our country in the army in Vietnam and you my son served our country too as a marine.

I cannot tell you how many people walked up and thanked me and your father for raising such a fine man. That the qualities they like and the respect that you've earned with your peers started at home with us. You surely know how much we all loved you. Your in Gods hands now in heaven. You now have the ability to see all that is true down here. We've all had you and have been around you your whole life, all 34 years of it. and we have all come to your side whenever you needed us. We have never abandoned you, we've always been at your side through all of your adventures. The many walkes to the post office to mail you packages when you were overseas with the Marines.

David we are all(me, dad, Rich, Lisa and her family , Uncle Ed and his family, Grandpa and Grandma, Uncle Bobby and your cousin Melinda)so very proud of you and you have always been our hero. You must know how much grief and sorrow that we have for losing you so soon. No, the world doesn't stop, life doesn't cease with your death, but the impact of the love, values and ideals that we've inspire in you will live on in everybody that you've touched. No one will miss or loves you like our family.

Love forever, mom

Lan Piquette
mom

August 12, 2006

We will still all laugh at the story of you putting numbers that you put on your socks. We will miss everything you did. Justin and jorden are young but still love you. We were a great Uncle and Dad.

Kaitlyn
niece

August 12, 2006

Uncle Dave-
Since I was eight you always asked " So do you have any boyfriends yet? Because when you get one i will do a background check on his family." Boy do I miss that. It has been one month and i cry in my sleep. I remember when i lived with you for almost two months. I miss those days very much. Just know that i will always take care of justin and jorden and aunt shawna. what i miss the most is that i don't have anybody to share my birthday with. I LOVE YOU AND MISS YOU UNCLE DAVE.
Love your neice,
Leah

Leah
Neice

August 10, 2006

DAVE I AM SO HONORED TO HAVE YOU AS MY OLDER BROTHER.EVERYDAY I WAKE UP AND HOPE THAT THIS IS JUST A BAD DREAM.YOU HAVE NO IDEA WHAT YOU MEANT TO ME DAVE.I ALWAYS BRAGGED TO EVERYONE ABOUT WHAT A GREAT FIGHTER YOU WERE.I MISS YOU SO MUCH DAVE.THERE IS NOT ONE SECOND THAT GOES BY WHEN IM NOT THINKING OF YOU.THE ONLY TIME I LOOK FORWARD TO IS SLEEP.THATS WHEN I REPLAY ALL OUR ADVENTURES WE EVER HAD IN MY DREAMS.I USUALLY GO TO BED CRYING BUT WAKE UP WITH A BIG SMILE ON MY FACE.YOU ARE WITH ME BROTHER I CAN FEEL YOU.LOVE ALWAYS YOUR LITTLE BRO RICH

RICH PIQUETTE
BROTHER

August 9, 2006

Piquette, I can't believe it's been a month already and I still don't want to believe that I won't see you again. Know that you are in my thoughts everyday and I pray for your wife, kids, and family all the time. Keep an eye on all us other folks down here and know that your smile and "Happy eyes" are missed!!!! God Bless your wife and your beautiul babies.

LASD/ Class 294

August 9, 2006

Shawna, Justin, Jordan,

We want to say how sorry we are and that you all have much to be proud of because your husband/father did more service to his community and country in his short life than most people do in a lifetime. The pain of losing him will less in time but the wonderful memories he left behind will remain forever in your hearts. We are proud to say that we knew Dave and we just want you to know that we are here for you if you need anything at all.

With Love, Leslie & Ray

Ray and Leslie Calvin
Friend of Family

August 7, 2006

The Badge

It is polished and shiny and looks so fine.
Once you earn it you have to tow the line.
The minute you wear it upon your chest
it becomes a symbol that you are the best.
It means honesty, integrity, and fairness to all.
Your life is never your own, but at the publics call.
Night or day, any hour, it makes you a mark.
It doesn't protect you from a shot in the dark.
Over the years the shine starts to fade,
but brighter still is the man its made.
It is often what separates you from the crowd.
It is a second family of which you are proud.
So now comes your time, you can't be denied.
When you pin on your badge, wear it with pride
The minute you wear it upon your chest
it becomes a symbol that you are the best.

....unknown author

RIP Brother

ST JOHN SO LA

August 6, 2006

Thoughts and prayers go out to the family and co-workers to this fine officer who has paid the ulitimate price in keeping thier community safe and protecting those they serve.


May he rest in peace

Douglas W. Bennett
Juvenile probation Officer
KY DJJ

Douglas W. Bennett
Ky. Dept. of Juvenile Justice

August 6, 2006

While we did not know you, we are truly grateful for your dedication, mourning your death; never forgetting your sacrifice! Not to worry, dear friend, your brothers and sisters in blue will carry on your watch for you ~ may you rest in peace.

Daniel & LaWanda Ross
Citizens/Iowa

August 6, 2006

Rest in peace brother, may God bless.

Sgt Ron Buchholz(EX- LASD-LKD)
Sandoval County Sheriff Rio Rancho NM

August 5, 2006

I cannot believe that this tragedy happened. David was a very good friend, Marine, and Deputy Sheriff. On July 6, 2006, he and I were grappling, talking about the Corps, and his future plans of S.E.B. The next day, he was taken from us. David was a dedicated cop who always enjoyed the hunt for the bad guy with a gun.

You will be missed by all of us. Rest in peace brother, David

Sergeant David Infante
Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department

August 4, 2006

To: Our beautiful Cinderellas & their LASD husbands
From: David in Heaven and Betty, Shawna's Mother

A family member asked me the other day with sadness in her face, "When is too much, too much?" I can't answer that question now, because for now, Shawna, Justin, Jordan, Papa and I are all floating on your Cinderella wings here on earth. David would be so proud of all of his friends giving this overwhelming amount of support. He would not have expected any less. I imagine he is looking down with those big brown eyes, long eyelashes & those adorable ears, knowing his family is safe, and in good hands. It all started the second he went to Heaven. The news was graciously broken to Shawna from Captain Sue and one of our Cinderellas. Greg and I raced to be by her side soon after she was told. You swept in taking over. You swept the twins out of the house to shield them, delivered food within an hour, cleaned, cleared, and cleaned again. You knew when you were wanted and needed and you knew when to leave. You were (are) our Angels. The three of you held us together for we couldn't just mourn. There were days of paperwork ahead, and all the arrangements that needed to be made. We had meetings after meetings with various agencies. Our Cinderellas were there to hold up the family and to get us through the grueling work ahead. Then there was what to wear? You asked Shawna and I, but that thought hadn't even crossed our minds. David's day was almost here so the family, friends and thousands of Sheriffs, Marines, Police and others could give their last good-bye's. David was going to look like God's Angel. And that he did. You went out shopping for Shawna and I and literally brought back dozens of dresses, shoes and accessories to choose from. We were in a daze as you helped us dress. You are our Cinderellas and David's Angels here on earth. David is watching you with his great smile. Thank you sweet David for looking after your family for the Cinderellas and all the hundreds of Angels that were sent, are working through you. Cinderellas, make sure to kiss your loved ones every opportunity you have. You never know when God will call us home. David kissed Shawna and his children and gave them all a hug and told them he loved them one last time that morning, just before he left for work. That kiss, those hugs, those words, will never be forgotten. Our hearts are broken but God has given us His blessings by sending us you. You have made the hardships more possible to endure and you've filled our broken hearts with love and hope. Our gratitude and deep affection for each and every one of you comes from the bottom of our hearts.

Love,
David in Heaven
Betty on Earth

It has been almost four weeks since David has gone Home. Every day, it is still so overwhelming to witness the support our daughter has received from hundreds of people supporting both her and the twins. There are the J&J Angels (her twin group), her Bunko group, churches, mother's groups, single mother's groups, the Sheriff Department, Marines, relatives, friends and people she doesn't even know. The list goes on and on. Shawna and her children have received so many thoughtful and considerate gifts. From season passes to Disneyland to house cleaning, gardening & pool services for months from friends. There have even been fund raisers for the twins and for her, including the neighborhood children raising funds by washing their dogs, and washing hers. Sentimental and beautiful cards by the dozens are received every day. Food has been donated by Grazianoes and food and coffee have been donated from It's A Grind to accommodate hundreds of people at the house for days. We have heard that donations have been made by celebrities and kind hearted individuals through the Sheriff Relief Association for Shawna and the twins. We cannot even begin to thank everyone for all their generous support and love.

And then there is my incredible husband Greg. Day after day after day of endless paperwork. Remaining strong on the outside for all of us. He is our rock. Figuring bills, searching through papers, doing what has to be done. Doing what Dave would have wanted him to do. Finishing one thing, then two more pop up. Some people say you marry someone like your father. Shawna did. David was so much like Greg in so many wonderful ways. Shawna had the best husband in the world. She also has the best father to whom I've been devoted and married to for over forty years.

Last night the "Dice" ladies came by. They showed up carrying picnic baskets of food and blankets. They spread their blankets out and sat down right in the front yard (all 16 of them). They shared stories with Shawna and cried happy tears. These incredible ladies presented Shawna with over a year and a half of paid "cleaning lady" services....and the list goes on and on.

David knows Shawna's family is very close. His death has made this bond even closer. Her wonderful brothers, Mike and Jason and their families continue to support Shawna, Justin and Jordan and will continue to support them through the most difficult holidays coming up. We will be with her to help her through, just as I know her extended family of Aunts, Uncles, her incredible friends, neighbors and church family will as well.

From the bottom of Shawna's heart, from the bottom of all our hearts, we are so thankful for all of you. Thank you for your reflections & memories, thank you for your kind words. We are so grateful for everyones's love and for your prayers. We are thankful for our church and Pastor Billy. Thank you God for all the blessings you continue to send.

Love,
David in Heaven
Betty on Earth

Betty Butler
Shawna's Mother

August 4, 2006

I just want to send my deepest sympathies to Officer Piquette's family. My uncle, David Powell, was also a LACS, and was killed back in Nov of 2001. Your husband will be greatly missed and the sheriff's dept has lost a great man and officer. Rest in Peace officer Piquette

Sonia Kettering

August 3, 2006

Rest in peace Deputy Piquette... Rest in peace

Trooper
NJSP

August 2, 2006

I went to High School with David and was very saddened in learning of his passing. My thoughts and prayers go to David's family and especially his children. From reading his reflections, it sounds like he made a wonderful life for himself and his family. Although I had not seen or spoken to him in many years, we can still remember his smile and laugh even from so many years ago. May you find comfort in knowing that even after 16 years, David is still very fondly remembered.

With sincere condolences,
Tracie

Tracie

August 2, 2006

Dave,

I was unlucky in that I only knew you for a very short time. But from the beginning, you and Shawna made me feel like a part of the family. After all, we are the new generation of "out-laws"!!! I loved spending time at your home, getting to know you , Shawna and the kids better, and I am very proud to call you my brother-in-law.
Our wedding is only a few days away, and Jason and I know that your spirit will be standing right there, with the other groomsmen, blessing us with your presence.
Jason misses you sooo much, but he also will make you proud, by being strong for Shawna and the kids.
I saw Shawna on Saturday...you would be proud of her... she is being very strong... but I can tell..in her eyes..that she misses you soooo very much.

Shawna, my new sister... I am soo happy to be a part of your life, and I am soo lucky to have such wonderful (and cute!!) niece and nephew. I am here, always, for whatever you need me and I love you very very much.

Maria V. Butler
Sister-in-law

August 1, 2006

My heart breaks for you and your family. May God grant you peace and may your little ones always know that their father was a hero on earth and is now an angel in heaven. Please know my prayers are with you and I'm so very sorry for your loss. As a fellow LEO wife I search for the right words - I wish there was something I could to ease your pain. Rest in Peace Deputy Piquette.

LEO WIfe
Albuquerque, NM

July 31, 2006

I'M SO SORRY. I'M SORRY THAT SUCH A GREAT MAN IS GONE. A PART OF ME HAS GONE WITH YOU. THANK YOU FOR BEING SUCH A GOOD FRIEND. I WILL FOREVER MISS YOU AND YOUR STOIC WAYS.

MAY GOD BLESS YOUR WIFE AND CHILDREN.

D.

DENISE GUERRERO
FRIEND

July 31, 2006

I come to the ODMP often to remember my late fiancé Dennis. Everytime I come here it breaks my heart to know that yet another officer has fallen and that yet another family has to live their lives without the man they loved. My heart goes out to everyone who knew and loved Deputy Piquette, especially to his wife. Know that you are not alone in the "journey" that you walk. Should you ever need anything please don't hesitate to contact me. The Davis Co. Sheriff's Office in Iowa will always know how to reach me. You will be in my thoughts.

From reading the reflections left for David, he sounds like he was a great man with a beautiful spirit. Those of you who knew him in life were so blessed to have been able to share in it. I hope that you will all continue to find a way to celebrate and remember David's life and the MAN that he was. Remember that David's life was about so much more than the way he died. David will continue to live on as long as we continue to remember him.

Deputy Piquette, thank you for helping to make this world a little safer for us all. YOU will not be forgotten. Please continue to watch over all of us as only you can. If you happen to bump into my late fiancé Dennis up there give him a big hug for me and the kids. It's been three and a half years but we still miss him terribly.

Wishing you brighter and better days,


Jocelyne :)

"Forever Remembering 26-3"

Jocelyne Brar (Winnipeg, MB Canada)
Surviving Fiancee of Deputy Dennis R. McElderry (EOW: 01/03/03)

July 31, 2006

To the family and loved ones of Deputy David Piquette and to his fellow officers with the Los Angeles Sheriff's Department.

On behalf of our family, we wish to extend our sincerest condolences on the grievous loss you suffered when David was killed in the line of duty. May you be comforted by the warm embrace and support of your law enforcement family and other police survivors. There are many who have have shared the same anquish and they will be there to support you on the difficult journey ahead.

Heaven now has another hero, but I am so saddened that it is your beloved David. In reading the reflections about him, it is obvious he was an amazing man. His valor and courage will be forever remembered. I also salute his commitment and patriotism to our country through his Marine service.

My son, Larry Lasater of the Pittsburg Police Department, was fatally shot in April of 2005. He was David's brother in green as well as being his law enforcment brother. I had to laugh when I read the reflection about how David marked his socks. When Larry was killed, my daughter-in-law was seven months pregant with their son Cody. One of the last things Larry had done at home when he completed Cody's nursery was to mark all the baby clothes hangers with a color coded star representing different sizes of baby clothes. I don't think anymore is more organized than a Marine. If Heaven needs squaring away at all, I know those Marine blue guardian angels are busy. Semper Fi.

This reflection is sent with the utmost respect for the service David gave to his community and the citizens of California, and for the supreme sacrifice he and his family made on July 7, 2006.

Phyllis Loya, mother of fallen officer Larry Lasater of Pittsburg Police Department, eow 4/24/05

July 31, 2006

Three weeks, two days, 17 hours....and yet it seems like just yesterday that time stood still for Shawna, Justin and Jordan.

Shawna has read one beautiful tribute after another on this site. Day after day, love and respect flows like living water through your words. Your words of love, support & kindness have continued to lift Shawna up. Your prayers have spoken life into her and have continued to give her the strength that she will need to go on. Please realize that regardless if you choose to write ten words or three, they are heartfelt from you, and truly appreciated. I personally have learned more about David from each heartwarming story. They fill me with joy.

From the moment Dave took his last breath, there is absolutely no doubt in my mind that he took his next one in the arms of Jesus. David is home. He is happy, joyous and free. No more tears, no more pain, no more sorrow. He doesn't know the depth of pain that has been felt by his beloved wife, his beautiful children, family and friends. He doesn't know the loss all who knew him feels. He fought the good fight and now feels only the glory of God. He will be united with his wife and children someday. I feel great peace & joy knowing this is true.

On July 12th, 2006 I was humbled, along with Shawna and her family, by the overwhelming tribute given to David by over 3,000 men and women of the Sheriff's dept, Police dept, FBI, Marines, family and friends. All came together in compelling unity to honor the life of Sheriff David Stan Piquette. I stood in awe with pride and a lump in my throat as "Dave & Shawna's" songs were played along with one memorable picture after another of Dave, Shawna and their twins, Justin and Jordan. At the same time, two sets of fellow officers, dressed in their once worn full Marine uniforms, continually marched forward for the change off which guarded David's flag drapped coffin. It was a phenomenal site. Following this tribute, Pastor Bill spoke words of life over David, and then one heartwarming euology after another was given. So much love spoken, so much pain, so much to share and so much from the heart. I appreciated the kind words of Sheriff Bacca and the Attorney General. I appreciated their wisdom. I admired the kind words from David's boss, Captain Sue. I appreciated the Govenor's comforting words to Shawna before the funeral and his kind gesture of two teddy bears for both Justin and Jordan. But what touched me most were the words of Shawna's brother Michael. Michael has deep love and devotion for his sister and he both loved and honored Dave and that was clearly the message he gave in his tribute. And then there were David's comrades and some of his closest friends. As I watched Rob Risiglione, Jim North and Ben Torres as they stood together and then payed tribute to Dave, as I listened to their love, devotion, admiration and humor, I felt both joy for the gift of friendship that they had with Dave, and sadness for the mutual loss they would now share.

Shortly after all the tributes were given, a proud Marine stood forward and played Taps. Soon this was followed by the bag pipes as Dave was solemly, but proudly, taken from the church.

David's funeral was indeed an overwhelming tribute. I have never been more proud of being a family member to one that had devoted his life to unselfishly serving others. I have never been so proud of all the fine, honorable men and women of the Sheriff Dept, Police Dept, our United States Marines and all of the people who give their unselfish service to help others. As I watched in utmost astonishment the hundreds of Sheriff, Police cars and motorcycles following David in procession on the closed 91 freeway, with their lights flashing as they honored their fallen hero, I was so humbled. From that day to the next, I watched as Dave was given the full military burial at Riverside National Cemetary. He was a proud Marine.

God bless all our fallen hero's and especially their families.

God bless all Shawna and Dave's friends and neighbors, and you Lisa, I send my love and gratitude. You have surrounded Shawna and the twins with love and devotion.

God bless my sister and friend Betty, and her devoted husband and my brother-in-law Greg. I know how great your loss is too. I know how much you loved are respected Dave. I know how much you will miss him. I know how you want to take Shawna's pain away. I know you haven't left her or Justin & Jordan's side. God bless you and keep you strong.

God bless you Shawna, Justin and Jordan. I love you my darlings. You will forever be lifted up in my prayers.

And last....you are already blessed David. You are in His presence. You are truly loved. I will miss you, but we will meet again soon my dear one. Love you.


Aunt Janel

Aunt Janel
Shawna's Aunt

July 31, 2006

It's been three weeks now that we received the shocking news of Dave's passing. Finding the right words to express our sorrow to his family is difficult and heartbreaking. It's next to impossible to imagine the pain they feel in this tragic loss.

Dave was such a pleasure to be with. We talked about the things that all cops talk about, family, friends and police work. Dave was a loving husband and father totally dedicated to his family and his friends. He was always willing to lend a hand and help out in any way he could. He was a good street cop that enjoyed the challenge of working one of the fastest and difficult area's in the Sheriffs jurisdiction. Is short, he was a great guy and he will be missed by everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.

Shawna, the twins and Dave's family are all in our thoughts and prayers. May we all take comfort and srength in the knowledge that he is now in the presence of almighty God.

Harry and Ruth Wiersema

Sergeant Harry Wiersema, Retired
Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department

July 28, 2006

May God put his loving arms around the Piquette family and the LA County Sheriff's Office.

Detective Rutilo Quezada
Smith Co Sheriff's Office, Tyler, TX

July 28, 2006

David, my God give peace to your soul, and punish those who caused harm to you.

Lt. Ray Scheu
Culver City Police Department

July 28, 2006

"Step forward now, policeman,
You've borne your burdens well.
Come walk a beat on Heaven's streets,
You've done your time in hell."

A sad citizen
none

July 27, 2006