Ken
I would like the family to know.....I "worked" with this AMAZING man for a LONG TIME! I first began to notice him visiting inmates in my unit(s) during the early 90's. Although I had a difficult job to do in ensuring that those he was visiting with were "legit" visits, I respected the "mission" he was providing for those in custody. It's a "tough balance" trying to determine the "risk factor". I didn't always agree with those he visited, because MANY would show a different face to him rather than those of us in uniform. Although each individual he visited was presumed to be "innocent until proven guilty", forgiveness was "Chaplian Bill's place. My career was to "presume" either the person he was visiting was NOT innocent (because if the individual was innocent, they would no longer be in my custody). He & I had, what I believe, a "mutual" respect for each other.....he was attempting to provide "divine intervention, no questions asked" for some who I personally felt were "unworthy". I believed he knew that MY job was not to hinder his calling, but to ensure HIS safety, which is what my job actually entailed. I grew to appreciate this man for NEVER condemning me for my faults....I have many. In spite of my Catholic upbringing (& job) that may have conflicted with his STOUT beliefs, he NEVER "belittled" me into feeling "guilty" for the career path I chose to support my family. Law Enforcement "can be" VERY challenging for those with FAITH.....we see the ABSOLUTE worst of anything resembling "humanity" (deception is primarily #1). He chose to see US ALL as worthy & redeemable (much like Jesus himself)....something I pray to aspire to someday! I retired 2 years ago....he sincerely left a VERY lasting impression, for which I am a BETTER MAN because of our association! May God Bless this DEVOUT Christian & I am praying for his family's comfort! He was the "closest" human I ever believed that "resemble Jesus" & I was HUMBLED because of him. He EARNED his place in Heaven....I pray he remembers me & has a few "good words" on my behalf when it's "my turn for judgement". Warmest regards....