Family, Friends & Fellow Officers Remember...

Lord Jesus, as we watch America’s Peace Officers succumb to the wicked and evil in this world, Shot and Killed in the Line-of-Duty, it becomes difficult for us to pick up and move forward. Our communities are on the brink of exploding with tension. In light of the peace officers who are no longer with us, I pray for endurance for our communities and law enforcement agencies. Carry us through this time of strife, that through our struggles, our bonds may grow even more unbreakable. In Your mighty and holy name, I pray. Amen.

Holy Scriptures on Law Enforcement’s Mission:

“For the policeman [peace officer] does not frighten people who are doing right; but those doing evil will always fear him. So if you don’t want to be afraid, keep the laws and you will get along well. The policeman [peace officer] is sent by God to help you. But if you are doing something wrong, of course you should be afraid, for he [the peace officer] will have you punished. He [the peace officer] is sent by God for that very purpose. Obey the laws, then, for two reasons: first, to keep from being punished, and second, just because you know you should.” [Romans 13:3-5 TLB]

[Jesus Said,] “Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends.” [John 15:13 ESV]

And he [Jesus] said to him, “Truly, I say to you, today you will be with me in paradise.” [Luke 23:43 ESV]

“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons [children] of God.” [Matthew 5:9 ESV]

“And I heard the voice of the Lord saying, “Whom shall I send, and who will go for us?” Then I said, “Here am I! Send me.” [Isaiah 6:8 ESV]

Chaplain Steven R. Closs, DDiv, MSBS, NCCA, FCPO-USA
Ordained Christian Global Outreach Minister No. 36526
The Badge 183 Peacemakers Prayer Ministry

January 9, 2024

Rest easy in heaven

Mark Mottola

March 19, 2020

Officer Parker,
On today, the 10th anniversary of your death I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice for the citizens of Orange County. And to your Family and loved ones, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy. There is no tougher job in Law Enforcement than that of a Corrections Officer.

BPA Mike Casey
United States Border Patrol
El Paso Station

March 19, 2019

Scripture assures us that, “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called [children] of God.” Matthew 5:9 ESV and “Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends.” John 15:13 ESV.

Rev. Dr. Steven Robert Closs, DD, MSBS
Licensed & Ordained Independent Christian Minister
The Peacemakers Prayer Ministry
“An Intercessory Prayer Ministry for Law Enforcement”
Chartered by the National Association of Christian Ministers
Merrimack, NH 03054

Chaplain Steven R. Closs, DD, MSBS
Merrimack NH Police Department

July 29, 2018

I remember that day so well, I will never forget it..Mark, Harry and Arnie were my friends, we worked together for years and I still cannot believe they are gone..I was in the courthouse on the day of the shooting on the 3rd floor, I heard the shots and ran up the stairwell to the 4th floor, I peered out the window in the door and saw Arnie laying on the floor, Officer Phil Greathouse with OPD was with him, he looked up and saw me and motioned for me to come out, when I did he told me to go to Mark who was laying in front of our Sgt's office door. I went to Mark and he keep asking me if he could put his head on my lap, I told him know because we did not know where he had been shot..the emt's then came and took him , Arnie and Harry to the hospital..My heart broke for these 3 amazing men,,.. I made it a point to go see Mark every day after work, I would brush his teeth for him and help him freshen up and talk to him and answered all his questions he had about work..I stayed in cantact with him for all the years until his death..I will never forget my sweet friend..I love you and miss you all.

Deputy Judy Bourgeois
OCSO --- Deputy Sheriff assigned to Court Security --1977

March 19, 2017

The Sheriffs of Florida and their deputies will never forget the sacrifice you and your family made to uphold our laws and protect society.

Your name has been inscribed on the Florida Sheriffs and the National Law Enforcement Memorial and in our hearts. May you forever rest in peace.

A scripture inscribed on the Florida Sheriffs Law Enforcement Memorial:

"Blessed are the peacemakers,
for they shall be called the children
of God." Matthew 5:9

Executive Director, Florida Sheriffs Ass
Florida Sheriffs Association

August 7, 2016

I really miss my big brother.

Colleen Parker

July 9, 2016

I just spent the weekend with your wonderful and brave sister. I heard many stories about what a wonderful man you are...your sister loves you so much and it is evident that she is very proud of you! Thank you for your service, Mark.

Melanie Karpinski
Sister of Sgt. Michael C. Weigand, EOW 9-14-08

September 9, 2014

Thinking of you today my dear friend. Remembering your service and sacrifice. I know you are now walking the beat near heaven's gates but your loved ones sure miss you dearly down here.

Captain Laura Kenyon
Fairfax City P.D., Virginia

March 19, 2014

Rest in Peace, Sir. I think you showed heroism that is beyond extraordinary. You are remembered and prayed for.

Kimberly Towey
Surviving daughter

March 19, 2012

Your Heroism is honored today, RIP Sir.

James Kotke
Civilian / Former Officer
WSF Park Police (Wi.)

March 19, 2012

Rest in Peace, Corrections Officer Parker. Your sacrifice is not forgotten.

Officer 11169

February 14, 2012

Your heroism and service is honored today, the third anniversary year of your death. Your memory lives and you continue to inspire. Thank you for your service. My cherished son Larry Lasater was a fellow police officer who was murdered in the the line of duty on April 24, 2005 while serving as a Pittsburg, CA police officer.

Time never diminishes respect. Your memory will always be honored and revered. I pray for solace for all those who love and miss you for I know both the pain and pride are forever.

I left a reflection today for another officer who was murdered in the same incident that you recieived your dibilitating wound. I wanted to leave you a reflection even though it is not your exact eow date. Your valor after being shot and continuing to lead a roductive life after such a life-altering event when you wee only nineteen is amazing. I am also glad that you lived and were able to see justice carried out by viewing the execution .

Rest In Peace.

Phyllis Loya
Mom of fallen California Officer Larry Lasater, Pittsburg PD, eow 4/24/05

January 10, 2012

My dearest Mark ~
Hardly a day goes by that I don't think of you and remember the depth of our friendship. You taught me so much about life after you were shot. I miss you my dear friend. I will continue to keep you in my thoughts and prayers. Until we meet again.
With love & friendship ~ Laura

Captain Laura Kenyon
Fairfax City Police Department

March 26, 2011

Mark, I will never forget you saying to me on the day of the shooting, you wanted to put your head in my lap, I could not because I knew you had been shot in the back of the neck. It broke my heart when I heard you could not walk again, you had your life ahead of you and some idiot robbed you of it..I will alwaYS love and miss you. You are my hero......Please watch over me like you did when you were here...Always in my heart. Judy

Retired Deputy Judy Bourgeois Orange Co.
Fellow worker, and friend

March 19, 2011

Time does not heal the pain the in the hearts of those left behind, but may you remember always we will never forget the heroes who gave their all.... God bless.

Deb Azure
Mother of Deputy Renee Danell Azure
EOW 08/06/02
Union County SO, Lake Butler, FL

Anonymous

March 19, 2011

To Officer Mark Parker, his family and his fellow officers with the Orange County Sheriff's Office:

Our heartfelt thoughts are with you on the anniversary of Officer Parker’s tragic death and we honor him for his valor and sacrifice to the community. Rest in Peace, Officer Parker and thank you for your service.

Wives Behind The Badge, Inc
Memebrs and Staff

March 19, 2010

My thoughts and prayers are with your loved ones and friends on this 1st anniversary of your EOW. Continue to keep watch over them and those still out on patrol watching over the Thin Blue Line. You will never be forgotten.

James Sheppard
Father of Sgt. Jason L. Sheppard EOW 12/7/06

March 19, 2010

My friend,

The Remembrance Ceremony yesterday was the first since your passing. They honored Arnie and Harry and had a moment of silence just for you.

It was a beautiful morning, the first nice one we’ve had in weeks. There was a very nice turn out and included some of the people you loved and who loved you the most. The words spoken were brief yet meaningful. It was mentioned that this year’s wreath was the nicest ever.

The bagpipes gave me chills and the effect of the sound in the breezeways was spectacular. They came from behind us, softly at first, passed by very closely, loud and clear, then in front of us and faded away again.
The words of your favorite hymn, Amazing Grace “I once was lost, but now I’m found, was blind but now I see” reminded me that for a while you were crippled, and now you are no longer.
“Taps” was played perfectly, and as always, it was tough. The flags in front of the courthouse were flown at half mast all day. I know you’d find it funny that most people who had business there yesterday wouldn’t have any idea as to why.
The small gathering afterward, the greetings and condolences, the hugs and handshakes, the laughter and the tears were what meant the most.
I was so proud, and I know you are too. If you planned it yourself, you wouldn’t have done anything differently.

The office of a new friend I visited looked like you decorated it yourself. I can’t get away from that stuff, and again, I know you’d find that funny. Both nerds, you two would have gotten along great.

I cried tears of happiness and was overwhelmed yesterday afternoon when I learned that over fifty people came to Animal Services and adopted pets as a direct result of the news story about your cats.
Since you couldn’t be an organ donor because of your illness I realized yesterday that this is the next best thing you could have done for your fellow man. The difference in the lives these pet adoptions make will be remembered forever.
I had no intention of ever going there, but when I did yesterday, I actually met the family who has Connie and Sally. As I walked into the hallway the odds of us passing by each other at that very moment had to be one in a million. 1 second sooner or later, and I wouldn’t have met them. They are a very nice family, animal lovers just like we are. They took the girls, and are keeping them together out of respect and to honor you after they heard the story of your sacrifice.
Know now that all your beloved pets will be well cared for and live the rest of their days in loving homes.
Since I ended up there, I was really only going to thank a few of the wonderful staff. It occurred to me though that while there, I could take care of another matter I believe you would want me to.
Then, I decided to walk through the public area of the kennels in hope of finding some comfort there. With the exception of one, I was able to pet every single dog there, even the ones labeled “aggressive”.
I ended up being there several hours. I met a girl who was “just looking”. We talked at length, and she went from just looking to filling out adoption paperwork. She will have her new dog by Monday. She loved the name I suggested. I never told her where I got it from, but there’s a very good chance her new dog will share the name of your very first.

I just read:” WHILE WE ARE MOURNING THE LOSS OF OUR FRIEND, OTHERS ARE REJOICING TO MEET HIM”. Knowing that you’re with your family and friends that have gone on before us, and that your earthly body has been traded in for a heavenly one has been a great comfort to me.
I feel your presence every day since you’ve been gone, but never more than yesterday. I will continue to do the things I feel you want me to in your memory and to honor you. I love you, I miss you and I’m thankful.

Carl Head
Orlando, FL

January 16, 2010

Dear Family, Friends, and Co-Workers of Corrections Officer Mark Parker,

We are so sorry to here about your tragic loss of Corrections Officer Mark Parker. Our thoughts and prayers go out to you in support during this very difficult time. We know that sometimes there is little comfort that comes from words. Keep focused as you can on the memories and joyous times for these things may bring you comfort. Rely heavily on family, friends, and other law enforcement for support. Honor your fallen loved one, for their sacrifice will not be forgotten. Corrections Officer Mark Parker is a hero.

Respectfully,

Alissa Scott
Widow of Beryl Wayne Scott
E.O.W. 09-10-02

Lisa Schultz
Widow of Don Schultz
E.O.W. 05-12-04

Co-Founders of Survivor Help Network

Anonymous

April 9, 2009

Man, I am so sorry that had to happen to you. May you rest in Peace. You will be missed, Brother.

F. Officer Winslow
Federal Police

April 8, 2009

Officer Parker,
Sir, I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice for the citizens of Orange County. And to your family, loved ones, and fellow Officers, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy.

R.I.P.
USBP

Anonymous

April 2, 2009

REST IN PEACE, BROTHER
PROVINCIAL CONSTABLE MARTY LALONDE
ONTARIO PORVINCIAL POLICE

PROVINCIAL CONSTABLE MARTY LALONDE
ONTARIO PROVINCIAL POLICE

March 29, 2009

God bless you, your family and the men and women of the Orange County Sheriff's department. Rest in peace brother..

Officer E. Borghesani
San Francisco Police Dept, CA

March 28, 2009

My families deepest sympathies go to Officer Parkers family, friends and fellow officers. God speed.

Rich Knudsen
Brother of Sgt. Mary Huggins OCSO, FL

March 28, 2009