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 11, 2024

a father; an officer of the law; and an honest man.
I had the pleasure of meeting Sgt. Ira Essoe after he had met this evil in the street.
He was wounded, but was still up then. He had humour and grace after everything he had met and seen.
I also met and spent too little time with his father and mother--both are passed now--they raised a hero. Ira's dad was one of the most gracious men I have ever met. Ergo, Sgt. Essoe's manners were well reserved.
Happy Father's Day, Ira; and to all his fellow officers. Just wanted to let those of you who still hold the line that je me souviens. A tout, stay safe out there.

a civilian
a Canadian

June 22, 2020

RIP sir. Not even a travesty of justice where the offenders were released can prevent us from honoring your service and incredible act of courage for your fellow citizens.

Deputy Sheriff Los Angeles
County Sheriff

February 4, 2020

Happy Birthday Dad!!! Love Ya!!!

Ira Essoe

November 7, 2019

I think about you and talk to you daily. Love ya Dad!!! Miss you!!!

Ira Essoe

February 4, 2019

Love ya Dad! Miss you!

Ira Essoe
Son

November 6, 2018

John 5:28, 29 - "Do not be amazed at this, for the hour is coming in which all those in the memorial tombs will hear his voice and come out". I pray that everyone can find peace in knowing that we will see this officer as well as many others again in Paradise soon. Until then, please accept my condolences.

A.W. Montgomery
Concerned Citizen

October 4, 2018

Rest in peace my brother. You are a hero.

Lieutenant Ray Flores
NYPD (retired)

February 4, 2018

Thought about you today and raised a glass in your honor! Have to say, I wish it was with you...Miss and Love ya!!!

SGT Ret. Ira Essoe
Son

February 4, 2018

Rest In Peace Brother LEO. Thank you and your family for your sacrifice and service.

Officer Mike Robinson (Ret)
Upland Police Dept. CA

February 4, 2018

Reading your story. I'd just want to say thank you for your service and sacrifices. My thoughts are also with your family as you watch over them from above. Rest in Peace

Surviving parent G. Birkholz
Mother of Officer Craig Birkholz EOW 3/20/2011

January 27, 2018

Today is the anniversary of your shooting, and I have been thinking about you. I can't imagine what our lives would have been like if you had not been shot, but I know what you gave me before that day. I cherish every memory, and every conversation, even after you passed. I remember sharing a shot of scotch with you when ever we visited and how you couldn't in the years before you passed. I miss our conversations and the old westerns we used to watch. You made me the man I am today, and I thank the lord we got those nearly 30 years! Always in my thoughts Dad. I raise my glass to you! Miss you!

Ira Essoe

November 6, 2017

I woke at 0300 this morning and couldn't go back to sleep. I didn't immediately know why. I can't believe it's been 7 years. I guess all our conversations since then haven't slowed anything down. It still feels like yesterday. Love and miss you Dad.

Ira Essoe

February 4, 2017

Your heroism and service is honored today, the 2nd anniversary 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 murdered in the line of duty on April 24, 2005 while serving as a Pittsburg, CA police officer.

Time never diminishes respect and your memory will always be honored and revered. I pray for solace for all those who love and remember you for I know both the pain and pride are forever. I hold your family in my heart's embrace today.

Rest In Peace

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

February 4, 2012

Rest in Peace, Sergeant Essoe. Your sacrifice is not forgotten.

Officer 11169

January 19, 2012

My thoughts are with all of your loved ones today as they face the first anniversary of you being called away from duty. You put up a brave fight for so many years. Thank you for being the hero that you are. You will never be forgotten.

Bob Gordon
Father of Chicago Officer: Michael P. Gordon, EOW: 8/8/04

February 4, 2011

To Sgt. Ira G. Essoe Sr, his family and his fellow officers with the Orange County Sheriff's Department:

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

Wives Behind The Badge, Inc
Members and Staff

February 4, 2011

I come to the ODMP often to remember my late fiancé Dennis. Every time 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 officer they loved. My heart goes out to everyone who knew and loved Sergeant Essoe. 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. I can also be found on Face Book.) You will be in my thoughts.

From reading the reflections left for Ira, 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 Ira's life and the MAN that he was. Remember that Ira's life was about so much more than the way he died. Ira will continue to live on as long as we continue to remember him.

Sergeant Essoe, 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 seven years and a half years but he's still very much missed and forever loved.

Wishing you brighter and better days,


Jocelyne :)

"Forever Remembering 26-3"

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

July 5, 2010

The Dail family of Ocala, Florida sends our deepest condolences to you and sincerest love. We are praying for you and grieving with you. May the LORD carry you and protect and provide for you. Trust Him, rest in Him.

The Dail family, Ocala, FL
in-laws Ofc. Tony Zeppetella eow:6/13/03

July 2, 2010

My thoughts and prayers are with those friends and family members that are left behind and cannot follow. Rest in peace my brother in blue...we will take it from here.

PFC Adam F Laser
Westminster City Police Department

April 18, 2010

Sgt. Essoe,
Sir, 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.

R.I.P.
USBP

Anonymous

April 17, 2010

Our condolences go out to you for the loss of Sergeant Essoe. Our hearts are with your department and families as you honor and grieve our nation's most recent hero. With many thoughts and prayers,

Lauren Yanez
Colorado Springs Police Department Wives Association

April 13, 2010

Ira is my brother. Actually, my brother-in-law. But for the past 36 years he has always felt just like my older brother. By heart blood. I mourn him terribly. He was, he is, one of the most loving, sensitive, optimistic, brave, supportive, and emotionally strong person I've ever known.
Ira... I love you. Always. I miss you.
See ya around.
your sis,
Kelley

Kelley Essoe
Sister

April 5, 2010

Rest in peace Sergeant Essoe, you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. Thank you very much for your service!

Shelly
Citizen

April 3, 2010

Rest in peace at last, Sgt. Essoe. Thank you for your service to your community. You will not be forgotten. Prayers for your family, friends, and fellow law enforcement officers.

Kathy Bubb
Ohio Citizen

March 27, 2010