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Daryl Raetz Obituary

Police Officer Daryl Raetz, a six-year veteran of the Phoenix Police Department, was struck about 3:30 a.m. on May 19, 2013, near 51st and Cambridge avenues, Phoenix Police Department spokesman Sgt. Tommy Thompson said.

Raetz was standing in the road processing a suspected DUI driver with two to three other officers when he was struck by an SUV that was going north on 51st Avenue, Thompson said. The SUV driver fled, turning left on Thomas Road.

Raetz was pronounced dead at St. Joseph's Hospital and Medical Center. He was 29 and had a wife and child. He was also a veteran of the Iraq War.
Published by The Arizona Republic from May 19 to May 20, 2013.

Memories and Condolences
for Daryl Raetz

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140 Entries

August 29, 2014

Thank you Daryl.

Perez Family

July 19, 2013

2 months ago I received a phone call early in the morning that told me God had blessed you with a pair of wings and a place in heaven. I will never forget how incredible you were to my family and I. You are someone I will remember forever despite only seeing you a few times. Those few times were a blessing that will be cherished eternally. We didn't get a chance to thank you but we love you very much. You truly are a hero and will never be forgotten. Thank you, Daryl. Rest In Paradise my friend.

June 5, 2013

To my first born Grandchild,find peace. I know you will continue to do a fantastic job serving with our Lord. You have been a fine example of a Son, Grandson, Nephew and most of all father. To your immediate family,
Stephanie, Tatum and other relatives, find peace knowing Daryl did his job and did it very well.
Grandma Irma

Tiffany Huskey-Rivas

June 4, 2013

God Bless you and your family. Thank you for your service, Daryl. May you rest in eternal peace. My thoughts and prayers are with your wonderful wife Steph and daughter Tatum and extended family.

Aunt Debbie

May 31, 2013

Rest in Peace dear nephew. We will miss your laughter, smile and Love. It is so hard to believe that you are gone. Our hearts are heavy, but we will see each other again one day. As you look down on us, know that you will never be forgot. You always went the extra mile and you were sent on your journey the same way.
Love you Daryl

Tracie Haas

May 28, 2013

Forever shine, You have lite a light in so many. RIP

Tracie Haas

May 28, 2013

Daryl knowing you as a young child to a teen to the amazing man you have become. You will forever be remembered and you have made a impact on everyone you have touched. RIP

Phoenix 911

May 27, 2013

Its the worst call imaginable when we receive the calls and be the first to know of the horrible, devastating loss we all just had. Its very touching to see other Law Enforcement agencies from all over leaving their condolences- it shows that the loss hits everyone. I didn't know Officer Raetz personally but am so thankful and humbled for his service in the military. We are blessed to have an Officer protect us as he did. I thank you Officer Raetz. May the family find peace with all of the support from the Community and how much we respected Officer Raetz. God Bless you.

Sue Christiansen

May 25, 2013

My heart goes out to the family and friends of Officer Raetz. Thank You for helping to keep us safe. God Bless You!

Sally Gomez

May 25, 2013

RIP Office Raetz. May God continue to watch over your family. My deepest condolences to the entire Phoenix PD, the entire Raetz family and friends. I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers. You are indeed a hero, Sir.

Rosendo and Alice Tarango

May 25, 2013

We have your family in our thoughts and prayers. Our hearts are so heavy with the loss of your son. Our condolences go out to his mom Cindy and his dad Bill also his wife and daughter.

Cody Bouchier & Family

May 25, 2013

The strong commitment of your love for God is very evident. God's love for you is overwhelming. Just as you cherished Daryl, we extend our love and blessings to you in the days ahead.

Scott Chamberland

May 25, 2013

Please accept my Deepest Sympathies

Vicky Baze

May 25, 2013

so sorry about this terrible loss for this family and for the community. My heartfelt thanks for your sacrifice to keep this city safe.

Paula Brill

May 25, 2013

Words cannot express how very sorry I am for your loss. Your family has been in my thoughts and prayers every day. May God comfort all of you in this most difficult time. Thank you, Daryl for your sacrifice.
Sincerely,

Michelle Etsitty

May 25, 2013

To my fellow Navy Corpsman Veteran,

May you rest in Valhalla... I'm listening to your service and to hear we went to boot camp and corps school around the same time, I was also in Iraq from 2004-2005. You did your duties well. Semper Fortis. I pray for your wife and daughter for them to heal...

Judie De Jaco

May 25, 2013

God Bless you and your family. Thank you Daryl for your service. May you rest in eternal peace.

K L

May 25, 2013

Rest in Peace brother, we got it from here.
- Richfield PD

Toni Force

May 24, 2013

I am so sorry for the terrible loss to this wonderful family. Steph, Daryl will always be with you and Tatum. He gave his life protecting us. He will never be forgotten....

Stephanie Vincent-Estrada

May 24, 2013

R.I.P. Daryl we have heard countless stories of your heroism. We know your are walking with our Heavenly Father.You continue to serve us even in your absents. Know that your family will be cared for by us and your brothers in blue. .Your community is eternally grateful for your service.

Calvin and Debbie Miller

May 24, 2013

Our thoughts and prayers go out to you during this time. Our prayer is that God will sustain you and hold you in his hands. We know your husband through pictures as we were at the graduation from the academy. We were watching our son and Daryl stood right next to him(Ryan Miller) May God be with you, your daughter and extended family at this difficult time.

Kathy Carlson & Family

May 24, 2013

Although we didn't personally know your beloved Daryl, our community mourns the loss of a hero. We hope that the memories held so dearly in your hearts will bring you much comfort. That is usually a hero's wish, to bring comfort to others, and I am sure he would wish that for his family and friends. The thoughts and prayers of our community are with you.

Brandi Harbison

May 24, 2013

Dear Stephanie,
I'm so sorry for you're loss. Daryl was a great guy. My brother and I grew up with him. My brother's name is Scott Givaudan he went to middle school with him and high school. Daryl will be missed. My brother and I had some fun times when Daryl came over. My brother and him used to ride bikes together all the time. If you need anything here is my number 602-326-1984. RIP Daryl Brandi Harbison/Givaudan

May 24, 2013

Our thoughts and prayers are with Daryl's family and his extended family of law enforcement. His service will not be forgotten, and he will always be remembered as a hero.

"They that love beyond the world cannot be separated from it." God holds your hand as you walk through this time.

God speed.

cindy upshaw

May 24, 2013

my thoughts and prayers are with you all

May 24, 2013

Thank you for your services and heroism, my deepest condolences to your wife and family. RIP

Luz Vargas

Margaret Solares

May 24, 2013

Thank you for your service young man, too soon gone. For your military service and service to your community. Sorrow for your loss to your family and friends and you will be in my prayers. You are Home, in His Arms.

Keri West

May 24, 2013

Thank you for all your hard work and sacrifices that you have made. My prayerd and thoughts are with your wonderful wife and daughter and extended family. God Bless you all.
Keri West

Don Danforth

May 24, 2013

I cannot imagine your families loss, I had a very good friend from Camelback High School, Dale Stone, who also lost his life in the line of duty on the Phoenix Police Force. My prayers are with the whole Phoenix area for this tragic loss.

David Rothleutner

May 24, 2013

Dear Raetz Family, I send my heartfelt thoughts and prayers to you all in this difficult time. Please accept my condolances from my family to yours. God Bless you All!

Brett Sutton

May 23, 2013

RIP hero. You gave the ultimate sacrifice.

Robynn Bruce

May 23, 2013

Prayers go out to the family. I wish I had gotten to meet your part of the Raetz family..I am also Ron's cousin. God Bless you and yours.

Melia Bowen

May 23, 2013

I can not begin to imagine the impact of this loss in our world. My prayers are with the Raetz family and all the fellow officers.

May 23, 2013

You gave more to your country, community, family and friends in your short life than most people give in a lifetime. I was blessed to have known you. RIP Daryl
Love, Ada

Daphne (Raetz) Engstrom

May 23, 2013

God go with you..

Carrie McCoy

May 23, 2013

Daryl we have had so many happy memories I will carry your memory with me always and I promise to always be there for Stephanie and Tatum. May you rest in peace, please know your family loves you always and you are truley missed my dear cousin.

Gary & Elisabet Maedl

May 23, 2013

My sincere condolences to your family.

Marisol Ryner

May 23, 2013

May God watch over your family as you make your journey to the one above, may grace shower you. Thank you for your service.

Margaret Murray

May 23, 2013

I'm very sorry to hear about the loss of Daryl. My thoughts and prayers are with all of the family, friends and those who have worked with or known him. (Ron, you must have been very proud of your cousin.) May the Lord provide his comfort and strength to all of you.

Pat Farmer

May 22, 2013

Cindy and Stephanie,
I cannot imagine the loss you are feeling now. My heart aches for you! When I saw Daryl's last name in the news' stories, I knew immediately who it was. Your last name is so unique. I appreciate all the years he gave to protect our country and city. It's such a shame that his life was needlessly cut short in the service of caring for others......such a sacrifice!!! May God grant you the strength to cope during these trying times.
With Love and Prayers,

May 22, 2013

Officer Raetz will be remembered not only by the City of Phoenix but also as a fellow Veteran serving his country as a warrior serving in harms way across the water. To come back and serve the community is a double. Selfless service without regard to personal safety is a virtue. Officer Raetz did such a selfless service. My prayers go out to the family of this fallen Officer. Semper Fidelis. John Kimberling Jr.& Family USMC/AZARNG (Ret)

Shonda Albert

May 22, 2013

RIP officer. My prayers and thoughts to your family, especially your little girl and wife. Not fair!

Gil & Stacy Laborin

May 22, 2013

We were saddened to hear of Daryl's passing.
We pray that grace & peace be with the Raetz family from God our Father and Lord Jesus Christ.

Mckenna

May 22, 2013

Rip Daryl u will b missed by many thx for all services!! :) Tatum now has her very own special angel to watch her an guide her daily xoxo until we meet again

Katie (irby) hines

May 22, 2013

Wow what a tragedy i have know daryl for many years we went to elementry school together. He was a great friend. My prayers go out to his family. He will be missed RIP Daryl

Courtney Spiess

May 22, 2013

To the Raetz family, i am so sorry for your loss, i can't even begin to imagine your heartache. I am sure of two things, Daryl's spirit will always be with you, and when the time is right, you will see him again one day. My thoughts are with you. I wish you all the best in your time of healing.

May 22, 2013

MY heart breaks for your family as you gave the ultimate sacrifice that can be asked of any officer. You truly are a hero not because of the life you lost but because of the life of service towards others you gave.

Wendy May

May 22, 2013

Daryl's death is a tremendous loss to our community. He was a student of mine at PVCC and an inspiration to the class. He loved his work and his family. You left us too soon.

The Dingley Fanily

May 22, 2013

To the family of Officer Raetz, we are so very sorry for your loss. May God wrap his arms around you at this most difficult time and know that your loved one is in the arms of God.

Waylon & Connie Hunt

May 21, 2013

Our deepest regrets go out to your family. You are in our thoughts and prayers throughout this time. Daryl, like all of our brave policemen, have our respect for protecting and serving on our streets.

sheri Cates

May 21, 2013

My thoughts & prayers are with the Raetz family for their tremendous loss of their loved one. He was a great kid & grew to be a wonderful, respected man. You will be missed by many. RIP Daryl <3

Wilmer Tinoco

May 21, 2013

Our prayers are with the Raetz family and to the Law Enforcement family who give their lives to the community. Thank you Officer Raetz for your service to the community and to our country. Just know we will always have you in our thoughts and prayers. May you be at peace with God and may God be with your family during these hard times.

Respectfully,

The Tinoco family

May 20, 2013

Greater Love Hath No Man...
Officer Raetz, You have proven this!
Rest in the Lord's Peace as we will take it from here!

Reserve Sgt Victor DiGiovine
Maricopa Police Department

Jessica Crabtree

May 20, 2013

Words seem inadequate to express the sadness we feel about Officer Raetz.
May the love of those around you help you through the days ahead. With caring thoughts,

May 20, 2013

May you rest in peace! You and your family are on our prayers. We can't show enough gratitude for the time you served for our country and while with Phoenix PD.

Jeninne R

May 20, 2013

My deepest sympathy thoughts and prayers to the Family, Friends and Colleagues of Officer Daryl Raetz. May he forever Rest In Peace.

Lynnette Amparán

May 20, 2013

Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of Officer Raetz. Thank you for your service to the public and community of Arizona. You will greatly be missed.

- Amparán Family

May 20, 2013

From our LE family to yours...Our deepest sympathy to your wife, daughter, and extended family and friends. God's speed and thank you so very much for being a selfless person and serving our community and country.

Mary Jane Mooney

May 20, 2013

Prayers and thoughts from our family to yours. We are crying with you.

Rachel P

May 20, 2013

My thoughts and prayers are with everyone who is left with a broken heart from this tragedy.. Many many thoughts and prayers with his wife and child, I am incredibly sorry for your loss. RIP officer Raetz.

May 20, 2013

Officer Raetz, may you rest in peace. Some of us have never met you and won't have that honor but we admire you for your courage and hard work. My deepest sympathy goes out to your family and friends at this time of great sorrow.

Kathy Graulich

May 20, 2013

Please accept our heartfelt condolences ~ we will keep the families in our thoughts and prayers. I have 2 sons ~ a firefighter and a police officer, both with the City of Phoenix. I cannont imagine the loss you are feeling, but know that my heart hurts for you at this time. Lean on your family and your community to help you through.

Donna Sicard

May 20, 2013

Condolences to the family, friends & co-workers of Officer Raetz. Our hearts break for your loss & tragically losing one of our officers touches the whole community. We recognize your contribution and thank you Officer Raetz, for your selfless service to us via both the US military & the Phoenix police force. You gave all. Prayers for comfort and His peace that surpasses all understanding are being said for your loved ones. Sadly, our community has lost a hero & we know you will be greatly missed. The Sicard family

May 20, 2013

Stephanie, Tatum, and Family.
Our deepest sympathy to a family we recently welcomed as our neighbor. Daryl offered his immediate warm friendship and shared his love for family, country, and community. God will now welcome this fallen hero.
Ann and Jerry Stawicki, New River, Az

May 20, 2013

RIP Officer Raetz, My thoughts and prayers are there for you and your grieving , lovely family,they will forever remember you in their hearts. Cathie Kirk, wife of retired, deceased ,Phoenix Police officer Leonard J. Kirk

May 20, 2013

Thank you for your service to the community and great state of Arizona.. Prayers and hugs to the family and friends that lost a hero.
Shawne Aaroe

Nicole Tevault

May 20, 2013

I'm so sort for your loss! We are part of the LEO Family. Please know that we are praying for you and your family! Thank you for standing behind the badge.

Erica Golbach

May 20, 2013

My deepest condolences to the family of Officer Raetz. May you forever rest in peace.

Connie Davenny

May 20, 2013

It truly sadens my heart and others to hear this tragic news. May you rest in peace and may all of your family be blessed. Thank you for all of your time and service. You will always be remembered.

Chad and Janice T

May 20, 2013

From another Law Enforcement Family, please accept our condolences. Your family will be in our thoughts.

Dave & Becky Bigalow

May 20, 2013

Our prayers for the family of Daryl Raetz, may God comfort your family during this time.

Megan and Brad

May 20, 2013

You are In our thoughts and prayers. As my bf/sons father is a police officers in Az, can't imagine all the broken hearts of the Raetz family. Our heavy hearts go out to you. 10-7 to heaven Officer Raetz. R.I.P

Cory Figueroa

May 20, 2013

To the Officer Daryl Raetz family - Our hearts are once again ripped apart and tears freely flow as we again mourn the loss of another fallen hero. Another wife and child are left temporarily without their husband and daddy and we are left to cherish the memories and try to make sense of a tragic loss. I write these words and express these thoughts after sharing precious moments with my own 4 year old grand-daughter and daughter in law who were left without a husband and daddy in 2008 (fallen police officer Shane Figueroa). I pray that angels seen and unseen will gather your family and encircle you with all you stand in need of and buoy you up through all the hard times to come. May our Heavenly Father and our Savior extend their most choice tender mercies to your family.

Amelia Shallcross

May 19, 2013

Thank You Officer Daryl Raetz, I salute you sir for your dedication and great sacrifice. May God hold your family and friends in his mighty arms and comfort them during this great loss.

Kilby

May 19, 2013

"Blessed are they that mourn: for they shall be comforted."
Praying for you - The Kilby Family

Aimee T

May 19, 2013

My prayers go out to the Raetz family. It was an honor to have known you Daryl. You will be missed.

May 19, 2013

R.I.P.

Eve Johnson

May 19, 2013

My son goes to school with his daughter, and I can say, without a doubt, he loved her unconditionally. Her face would light up when she saw him, and I know that he will be truly missed. God bless his family and may his soul rest in peace.

Billie Ellefritz

May 19, 2013

Sending Prayers, Officer Raetz you will be missed by many will live in our hearts. Stephanie sending hugs and prayers your way.

Janice Goldstein

May 19, 2013

With appreciation for your service and prayers for your loved ones.

The Clark Family - Phoenix PD

May 19, 2013

Our thoughts and prayer are with your family, friends, during this difficult time. May you Rest in Peace Officer Raetz."In Valor There is Hope"

May 19, 2013

God Bless and comfort Officer Raetz's family

Patty Mitchell

May 19, 2013

Rest In Peace Officer Raetz. Thank you for your heroic selflessness both as a soldier and a police officer. May your wife and child be surrounded by love at this time and always. God Bless.

Teresa Collett

May 19, 2013

May the Lord be with his family and friends! Thank you, Daryl, for your service!

Grandma Linda & Gus Holka

May 19, 2013

God is holding Daryl in his arms this day and for all eternity. We are praying so hard for his family. He was a great daddy and husband.

May 19, 2013

My prayers to the family. Rest in peace brother. PPD #6687

Keith & Rena-Phoenix PD

May 19, 2013

Take the time to grieve, many thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this time. This is something so tragic, there are no words for. Cherish the memories and hold them close to your heart. He will never be forgotten.

The Tiona Family

May 19, 2013

Our thoughts and prayers are with you all during this time. May God bring your hearts peace.

Marybeth Abodeely

May 19, 2013

So very very sorry for this huge, tragic and senseless loss. Condolences to family, friends, and the city he was protecting. I have worked for a large Central Phoenix funeral home for 19 years and these funerals are horribly sad and emotional for everyone. My prayers and good thoughts are with the family and friends.

Tony Fajardo

May 19, 2013

Officer Raetz, May the Lord open his arms and take your family in them and comfort them at this time of deep sorrow. Our deepest sympathies and condolences to you and your family. Rest in Peace Brother from your Brothers and Sisters with the Fraternal Order of Police.

Ron and Diane Bruce

May 19, 2013

R.I.P. our Brother! May God hold your wife and daughter in His arms and comfort them. Never Forgotten!

D Harrison

May 19, 2013

My deepest condolences to the family of Officer Raetz. May God hold you and give you comfort in the coming days ahead. Thank you Officer Raetz for your service.
An officer's mother

Melyna Fang

May 19, 2013

Thank you for serving my country & my city....You & your family are so appreciated & are in my family's thoughts & prayers.

Donna Carr

May 19, 2013

I am so sorry for the losse your family is feeling right now. I pray that God will bring your family and friends comfort and understanding during this difficult time, my heart goes out to them.

Melanie Rodriguez

May 19, 2013

Thank you for your endless and most precious sacrifice for the City of Phoenix. Protecting and serving to the enth degree. Rest in Peace sir. Heaven just received another angel today.

May 19, 2013

Rest In Peace! Thank you for your sacrifice and service!

Stephanie Rodriguez

May 19, 2013

My thoughts and prayers go out to the family of Daryl. Such a tragedy, my heart breaks for you.

Wendy & Barry Jones

May 19, 2013

We are saddened that this young officer must leave his family and loved ones at this time. He was a hero in life and death. RIP Officer Raetz....10-7 to Heaven...speedy journey Sir.

Burnice Duran

May 19, 2013

RIP officer Daryl Raetz you surved us proudly, Thank you my God Bless your family always.

aaron wade

May 19, 2013

Thank you for your service and all the many sacrifices u have given up,including the ultimate sacrifice of your life.may God bless your family and comfort them in this difficult time.

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