Thousands Honor Fallen Officer At Funeral
MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO/AP) -- A sea of uniforms from around the Midwest came to bury one of their own.
In a touching moment before Scott Patrick's family entered St. Stephen's Lutheran Church in West St. Paul, they found comfort in the arms of another officer's widow, Gail Bergeron. Her husband, Maplewood Police Sgt. Joe Bergeron, was killed in the line of duty in 2010.
As 4,000 law enforcement officers assembled outside, Mendota Heights Police spoke of Patrick's love of family, friends and the city he served.
"His girls -- Michelle, Erin and Amy -- were his pride and joy, and when he talked about them he lit up," said Mendota Heights Police Chief Mike Aschenbrenner.
With hundreds holding flags and little ones along the streets, Patrick was eulogized for his commitment to community. Officer John Larrive also highlighted Patrick's distaste for paperwork.
"Lord, if you can hear me I have something to say. If you're looking for yellow legal pads, Scott has 'em all," Larrive said.
A musician performed the Elvis Presley tune "Can't Help Falling in Love," which was played at Patrick's wedding in the same church 26 years ago. But plans for a happy life with his wife and family was cut far too short, and so tragically.
"Scott, I love you, we love you," said Officer Bob Lambert. "Rest now. We'll take your watch from here."
And down a gauntlet of uniforms and salutes, Patrick's final trip through town was ready. It was a ride of sadness and honor for a brave man sworn to serve.
Also in attendance Wednesday were Gov. Mark Dayton and Sen. Amy Klobuchar.
And Patrick's brother-in-law, Mike Brue, spoke on behalf of the family, wishing to thank the public for the overwhelming show of support in this period of darkness.
Patrick was killed July 30 while making a traffic stop. Brian G. Fitch Sr., 39, is charged with first-degree murder in his death. Fitch remains hospitalized after being shot several times in a subsequent shootout with police.
How You Can Help
A Scott Patrick Memorial Fund has been set up through Affinity Plus Federal Credit Union. Donations can be made in person at any of the Affinity Plus Federal Credit Union Branches, or via the following:
Phone: 651-291-3700
Mail: 175 West Lafayette Frontage Road, St. Paul, MN 55107
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