Family, Friends & Fellow Officers Remember...

Fitz, You were my assigned partner. You'd been around a few years and knew the ropes. I learned a lot from you. I truly hated your cigars, though.

I met your bride, as you referred to her, only once. What a lovely woman. You gave me a used bicycle for my son. I couldn't afford to purchase one at the time.

It's been over 30 years, but one day I hope to run into you again, Jack.

Police Officer Jim Orlando, Retired
Detroit PD, John's car partner.

July 10, 2022

Rest in peace Officer Fitzpatrick.

Rabbi Lewis S. Davis

May 17, 2020

John, your name recently came up in conversation and I pulled up his site. Been a long time since your accident, but I still remember that day. I always looked up to you when we worked at #5. You done good. Thanks.

Sgt. Fred Jorgensen
Detroit MI retired

June 17, 2019

FItz, I rode with you a few times as a rookie at old #5 and you were very kind and helpful. I was impressed by your experience and professionalism and aspired to by as good of a copper as you were. God bless you and RIP.

SGT. Jim Scott (ret)
Miami-Dade Police Department

December 1, 2016

To fully appreciate the heroes of the present, we must recognize our heroes of the past. Your heroism and service is honored today, the 26th anniversary year of your death. I am privileged to leave a tribute to you. 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 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. Rest In Peace.

I pray for the solace of all that call you beloved for I know both the pain and pride are forever.

Phyllis Lasater Loya
mom of fallen officer Larry Lasater

November 6, 2013

In death a hero, as in life a friend !

Anonymous

February 6, 2009

"The Badge"
He starts his shift each day
To respond to calls unknown.
He drives a marked patrol car.
A police officer he is known.
He's paid by the citizens' taxes
To make it safe on the streets.
But he usually has a second job
'Cause a waitress has his salary beat.
Now he doesn't know a holiday
'Cause he works all year round.
And when Thanksgiving and Christmas finally arrive
At his home he cannot be found.
He's cursed and assaulted often,
The one whos blood runs blue.
He seldom ever gets a thanks,
To some he's just a fool.
His friends are always other cops
'Cause people just don't understand
That underneath his badge and gun,
He's just another man.
He knows there might not be a tomorrow
In this world of drugs and crime.
And he gets so mad at the court system
'Cause the crooks don't get any time.
And each day when he leaves for work,
He prays to God above.
Please bring me home after my shift
So I can see the ones I love.
But tonight he stops a speeding car,
He's alone down this ole' highway.
It's just a little traffic infraction.
He does it everyday.
Well, he walks up to the driver's window,
And his badge is shining bright.
He asked the guy for a driver's license,
When a shot rang through the night.
Yes, the bullet hit its mark,
Striking the officer in the chest.
But the Department's budget didn't buy
Each officer a bullet-proof vest.
So he lay on the ground bleeding.
His blood wasn't blue - His blood was red.
And briefly he thought of his loved ones
'Cause in a moment the officer was dead.
In the news they told the story
Of how this officer had died.
And some who listened cared less,
But those who loved him cried.
Well, they buried him in uniform
With his badge pinned on his chest.
He even had his revolver,
He died doing his best.
Written By:
David L. Bell
Sergeant
Richland County Sheriff's Department
Columbia, South Carolina
Used with Special Permission of the Author
Copyright © 1999 - All Rights Reserved
and may not be duplicated without permission

Investigator David L Bell
Richland County Sheriff's Dept., Columbia, SC

November 13, 2007

On the anniversary of your death we remember you and thank you Sir for your service.

Pat Van Den Berghe, Civilian
Neighbors for a Better Manchester, NHn

October 9, 2007

May you Rest in Peace.

October 9, 2006

Officer Fitzpatrick,

I had the pleasure of meeting you only a few times - I have known your oldest son since the first grade and remember seeing your face at school functions and basketball games.

My father was also a Detroit Police Officer and I have always remembered that day, my senior year in high school, when he called me to tell me about your accident. I couldn't imagine what your family was going through.

Your funeral was the first one I ever attended for a police officer, and I thank God that it has been the only one. I remember being truly amazed by the procession - the number of officers who came to pay tribute to your life as a hero. It was beautiful.

You must be so proud of how far your family has come, and of how strong they have become through all the tragedies they have faced along the way.

Thank you for your ultimate sacrifice. The DPD lost a great hero way before his time.

September 2, 2004

Officer Fitzpatrick
Every Officer should have a relection. I knew your oldest son in High School and remember this happening. You were the first Officer I knew who was killed...I couldn't imagine the pain your family went through until I experienced it myself when my husband was shot and killed in the line of duty last year. Although it's been many years, I think if you and your family often. You will not be forgotten.

Anonymous

March 25, 2004