Wisconsin Deputy Kaitie Leising, killed in line of duty, laid to rest
HUDSON, Wis. -- Officers from around the country arrived in Hudson to pay their respects to Deputy Kaitie Leising on Friday morning.
It's estimated more than 1,500 law enforcement officers turned out to pay their respects.
"She always wanted to be in law enforcement. She pursued the profession with the same zest she had for life," said Sgt. Aaron Boldt.
With officers from as far away as New York and Texas in attendance, Deputy Leising's colleagues read statements on behalf of her family. They began with her dad, Roger.
"You arrived in my life earlier than expected and then left entirely too soon. And God needed a hero more than I did," said Sgt. Boldt.
Deputy Fred Mangine then read a statement written by Deputy Leising's mom, Kris.
"There's a void where you used to be and we won't know how to fill it. Kaitie is the sparkle in our lives and will forever burn bright. I'll see you in my dreams, sweet girl. Love, mom."
Fellow officers talked about Leising's love for the outdoors, reading Harry Potter books, and the Denver Broncos. Her obituary talks about her infectious laugh and her love for people, especially children. Just 3.5 months ago Leising and her wife Courtney became parents for the first time. Courtney's statement talked about their son growing up without Kaitie.
"Then there's our sweet baby boy Syler. I'm completely heartbroken that he will grow up without Kaitie by his side, but thankful he'll have the greatest guardian angel looking over him"
Leising loved to collect police patches and there is a box inside the school where officers from across the country have been leaving their patches. Those will be given to Leising's widow and son after the funeral.
A procession that stretched more than 20 miles followed Leising's funeral.
Leising is the fourth law enforcement officer in Minnesota and western Wisconsin to die in the line of duty this year.
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On Friday night a prayer vigil will take place for all of them on steps of the state capitol.