Tom Baitinger Obituary

St. Petersburg Police officer Tom Baitinger was shot to death Monday morning, Jan. 24, 2011, when gunfire broke out as he tried to serve a warrant. "Our community has suffered a loss today," St. Petersburg police Chief Chuck Harmon said during a somber press conference with Mayor Bill Foster outside Bayfront Medical Center.

Published by Tampa Bay Times from Jan. 24 to Jan. 25, 2011.

Memories and Condolences
for Tom Baitinger

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673 Entries

Tom, I just found out you died at 6:29 CST. My alarm clock has been going off at 6:29 every morning Monday Through Friday for 12 years. Knowing this now I will think of you every morning I wake up when I hear my alarm.

I spoke to you 6 weeks before you were taken. I told you I always credited you with saving my life one night in the middle of no where when I thought I was done from fighting with a man. You showed up like an Angel. I had no idea I had anyone coming.

You said you were coming home soon. It breaks my heart that you knew the day before that the Packers were going to the Super bowl. I know you planned on surprising your parents with a Super Bowl Party without telling them.

The Packers won my friend, but I know you had a hand in it. Thanks buddy

January 25, 2012

I probably only met you once, but I knew your parents. Regardless, there is a bond between law enforcement and a shared sadness between us all at the loss of a comrade. You clearly left a legacy and will not be forgotten. Chief Jerry Jansen (ret), Shorewwod Hills WI Police Dept.

Jerry Jansen

January 25, 2012

Tommy we shared many a night shift laughing, scared silly and leaning on each other to get through. You are and always will be my bud and I think of you often my friend. Rest easy bro and hopefully we will meet again and have a beer. We all love you brother and miss you very very much. Lt. Mark Brown (ret) City of Madison Police Dept

Mark Brown

January 23, 2012

Tom you are thought about every single day. I pray for your family and especially Paige. I remember the night you told me about meeting her and I will never forget it. You seemed so happy. We met on the steets of St. Pete just after we both got out of the academy. You were more than willing to always help out my Parole/Probation warrants and you and Yongblood were always rite there to assist. We became great friends and worked well together. We did what happened there all the time. We both came from Wisconsin about the same time, same age almost and we just clicked. Youngblood was rite there with ya. I will never forget those times we backed each other up and its a nightmaer what happened to you. I have spoken to Brian lately asking how Paige was doing and I want to send my prayers and thoughts to her and his family back up North. Tom was one of the best cops and always willing to help and do the right thing. I learned alot from him and I will never forget him or out time together. It is just unexplainable why this happened but God must have wanted the good guy back eaely for his reasons we got to trust but hard to understand. I must say I have never Never seen so many police cars in attendance for their funerals. It was a sight i will never EVER forget!! I wish I could do something to help Paige and Tom's family and maybe I can go with Brian someday for lunch or a visit together with Paige, Tom always talked about her and I feel I know her in a way. Life was just dealeta tough hand with the stroke so young but his strenght and determination was inspiring. I will always miss you Tom and my pin contriubting your life is displayed on my dash and I look at it all day lomg for inspiration to keep doing what you loved doing. Our times are precious and Tom is defunatley in Heaven rite now watching over us. And to Paige I woulg really like to help you out in any way, cut grass, fix car, ANYTHING! Brian Youngblood has my number so please call if you need anything, Scott Rogers, Former Parole Probation Officer, St. Pete vicinity. GOD BLESS PAIGE and TOM"S FAMILY UP NORTH in Wisconsin area. I was from Rockford and The Dells area....I think of him daily and you are all in my prayers and always will be. He was one of the best cops I knew!!!!

September 9, 2011

Tom You will never be forgotten! We met just as we booth got on the streets ans wer both came from the same wisconsin area and we clicked along with Youngblood. We had alot of great times and I rememnber the night you told me about meeting Page. I have talked to Brian lately and I hope we can all three get together and meet for lunch to talk. I really think about you and Toms family every single day. he was always willing to help a he was one of the best cops I ever worked with let alone a good personal friend. My prayers and thoughts are with you daily and Im sure he is looking down on us watching us now but we do misshimm soooooooooooo very much! God Bless Paige and Tom' family up North. HAPPY BITHDAY TOM!!!! Scott Rogers Ret. State Parole/Probation Parole/Probation,

Scott Rogers

September 9, 2011

Tom,
I'm sorry that I couldn't do more for you that awful morning. I miss my friend at the confrences. Please forgive and watch over me.
Ray

Ray Landes

April 19, 2011

We the Public have lost a wonderful man
trying to keep us safe. Officers please wear your vests. Please take care of each other. No more half staffed flags.

Norma Ross

April 15, 2011

MY PRAYERS GO OUT TO YOU AND YOUR FAMILY.

SGT. GRACIE GUERRERO

April 15, 2011

MY CONDOLENCES GO OUT TO YOUR FAMILY AND MY PRAYERS ARE WITH THEM.

SGT. GRACIE GUERRERO

April 15, 2011

Our condolences to the family and friends. Our prayers of safety for all the fine officers will continue as they risk their lives for the safety of the community. Thank you for your sacrifice and service.

Dan Gullett

March 13, 2011

My condolences to the family and friends of Officer Tom Baitinger. May Officer Tom be always remembered for his service, dedication, and sacrifice he gave to the community. Officer Tom RIP with our God.

Dennis Parr

March 11, 2011

To the family of officer Tom Baitinger: I just read of the tragic death of your loved one. I did not know him but it saddens me to know how you must feel. I wanted to share some comfort with you to let you know that there is much love and concern even in this wicked world. May the God of tender mercies who comforts and strengthens us in our trial and hardships sustain you at this most difficult time. 2 Cor 1: 3,4

F Flowers

March 7, 2011

I worked with Tom as a Hand Therapist many years ago (1998)? , when he hurt his thumb during his work as a police officer. He was always smiling,jovial and just a genuinely nice man. We called him the "OKIE DOKIE MAN" as it was one of his favorite sayings.Heaven has been blessed to have his arrival. I pray for his wife's speedy recovery asI am sure he would not want you to grieve so much as to miss out on enjoying life as much as he did.

Vicki Darlington

March 6, 2011

No words can ease the devastating grief you are suffering at this time, but I am praying that our Heavenly Father will surround you with his comfort and loving arms. He, like all policemen, is a Hero. My heart aches for you. God bless.

Joyce Alfrey

March 1, 2011

So sorry for your loss, may the peace and comfort of God surround you during this time.

Cheryl Albury

February 26, 2011

Tommy B!
Thank you for introducing me to your girlfriend in 1985. And thanks for not getting pissed when I married her in 1987! Your legacy includes my beautiful children, who would not exist without you.
On Wis, buddy- see you soon. We love you!

John and Chris Keese

February 23, 2011

Thank you for protecting us over the years! Our hearts and prayers go out to your family, friends and fellow officers. May you Rest in Peace as we now watch over your family, friends and fellow officers! ???

Matt and Sharon Getchell

February 23, 2011

you are in heaven now,thank you for all you done

Tanya Bammert

February 22, 2011

May God Bless you and look over your family.

Trish Masi

February 22, 2011

To Officer Baitinger's family, Not a day goes by that we don't uplift you in prayer. I know that life is a struggle and moments of tears may overwhelm you. You will see him again. We are given a hope, an eternal home in Heaven will reunite us.

Karen Craven

February 21, 2011

May flights of angels sing thee to thy eternal rest. Thank you for all that you gave to this world. God bless~

Wendy Meade

February 19, 2011

I didn't know Tom really well, but we did march together for 2 years in the UW Band. I will always remember his smile and his friendly face. We'll miss you at Alumni Band, Tom. My symapthies to Tom's family and friends. On Wisconsin!
Mary (Kelley) Story

Mary Story

February 4, 2011

I am so sorry for your loss. I can't imagine what you are going through. Tom was a true hero, he put his life on the line everyday to keep us safe. He is your angel now watching over you.

Christine

February 3, 2011

Linda Carlson

February 3, 2011

Tom Was a good man, and his candle was snuffed out to early, we, and I will all miss him. Most especially with UW Band Alumni functions.....It was always a pleasure to talk with him.

Mitch Haycock

February 3, 2011

To the Baitinger family,
May your fond memories and the comfort of friends, family and the rest of the world that love the police force help you through this difficult time. (John 5: 28,29)

Beth

February 3, 2011

May God hold you in the palm of his hand and protect you from evil. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

Sandy

February 2, 2011

joel delgado

February 2, 2011

I don't know you, but I know you are hurting. May God bless you and wrap his arms around you during this difficult time.
Susan, St. Petersburg, FL

January 31, 2011

Sharon

January 31, 2011

Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time. May God Bless you.

Evan and Claudine

January 30, 2011

To Mrs. Baitinger and family:

We are so saddened for the loss of your courageous and heroic husband, Tom. He shall be remembered for the wonderful and faithful service he had given to the St. Pete's Police Force and the streets of the community. We, indeed, have lost a brave warrior. We did not have the honor and pleasure in knowing Tom. That doesn't matter, he was our Brother in Christ.
May the strength of Christ surround you in His loving presence and carry you through your pain, loss and grief. May your tears of suffering turn to tears of joy in the memories and love you have shared together.
We salute Police Officer Sgt. Thomas Baitinger...to express our appreciation for all he has done for us.
We pray for God to release His outpouring of compassion and grace in your every waking moments and embrace you with protection and peace as you sleep each night.

Tom, Well Done, Good and Faithful Servant!!!
Dearest Ms. Paige, "Be still and know He is God".

Norma & Scott Beamer

January 30, 2011

We do not know you, my as a Wisconsin lady my deepest thoughts and prayers are with you. May God be with you always

Luanne & Robert Hightower

January 30, 2011

Our prayers are with you all.

January 30, 2011

Tom - you will be missed here on earth, but never forgotten. RIP, brother.

Todd Weger

January 30, 2011

god bless you r family in this time of need.

delfina pelayo

January 30, 2011

My deepest thoughts are with you. I feel for you and the feel of your deep sense of loss.. Its so hard to understand why. My thoughts are with you Paige.

gale morts

January 30, 2011

To family and friends of Thomas,
Our prayers and tears are with you.
We didn't know Thomas but God does.
Peace be with you.

Kathryn Hartman

January 29, 2011

Heaven has gained two more angels. May God continue to wrap his loving arms around the families in their time of sorrow. Rest in Peace. God Bless Both Families always.

Evelyn n Victor Romero

January 29, 2011

God bless your family in this time of need.

Sam Maddalena

January 29, 2011

When I think of Tom, I will always remember growing up as kids together in Middleton, hanging out at Shakey's, the Big Sky drive in, hanging out with Dan Maki and the crew, Band, Choir and then UW Marching Band together. So many good times. They will live on forever. My heartfelt condolences to Tom's parents, Mark, Amy, Jayne, your wife, sister in laws, nieces, nephews, friends and your UW Marching Band family. We will miss you, but know that you will be with us in spirit.

MaryBeth Heydt

January 29, 2011

To both families and the SPPD, my prayers are with you. I know you have probably heard these words many times already, but they are true. I cannot imagine what these past few days have been for you, the families and for the SPPD. You have lost one of your own as well....
I wish the good men and women of law enforcement could be appreciated and safe everyday ... we need them, appreciate them, and love them!
To the families, God will give you strength! Rely on Him and you will get through this - our community will get through this - I am so very very sorry!!!

Sandy Adkins

January 29, 2011

We send you so much love and many prayers. Among the thousands of people... We send you so much love. Look to the sky and smile because Thomas would want you to do that and celebrate his life. God will hold you and guild you and not let you be a lone. I a SArmy Mom with a son that is active duty, the thought is always there in my mind. But we have to be strong... and he will be there for you... forever... We have a large circle of Military moms to support everyday. We wish only the best for you....In Christain Love and muany prayers...
The Astronskas Family.

Rebecca Astronskas

January 29, 2011

Please know that the community and thousands of others are feeling your deep sense of loss. May God wrap his arms around you and comfort you with His love.

Valerie

January 29, 2011

Words cannot adequately express the sorrow so many of us feel. Paige and all Baitinger family members and members of SPPD, you are in our thoughts and prayers.

Marcy MacMath

January 29, 2011

Thank you for giving the ultimate gift, your life, to protect the rest of us. May you rest in peace now. God bless the famiy, and remember that you are in our thoughts and prayers.

M

January 29, 2011

The violence toward the police that protect us has to stop. My sympathy goes to Paige and Sgt Baitingers' families.

Peggy

January 29, 2011

Tom you will not be forgotton. You remain in my heart. I will cherish the memories I have of you when you worked for Dane County Sheriff's Dept.

Officer Denise Miller

January 29, 2011

You will never be forgotten. You remain in our hearts. You and your family are in our prayers.

Officer Denise Miller

January 29, 2011

To the families of the officers, the God of love, peace and comfort will lead you each step of the way. Reach out to him as he is reaching out to all of you.

The Marr Family

January 29, 2011

You are in our thoughts and prayers, Thank you for you dedication to our community. May god bless you.

January 29, 2011

RIP Brother and Godspeed to Your Family.. Never give up the fight against the demon's of this world...Peace to
The Thin Blue Line as law abiding citizens vs. anarchy!

Officer Tony Novak

January 29, 2011

I don't know your pain....however I do know the loss of a child. I would love to for you to reach out to me if you need to talk to someone that know's great loss. At times you will not feel that you can go on....yet you can with time....God Bless

Danie Schaal

January 29, 2011

I don't know your pain....however I do know the loss of a child. I would love to for you to reach out to me if you need to talk to someone that know's great loss. At times you will not feel that you can go on....yet you will with time....God Bless

Danie Schaal

January 29, 2011

Tom, we'll never understand why you had to be taken so early, but we're grateful for the life you've given, and for the memories that are so fresh this week. Prayers to your family as we all grieve - and celebrate - the great man and friend you were.

Kevin Larsen

January 29, 2011

You are in my thoughts and prayers, in this very difficult time. I am very sorry for your loss and will always remember him as a true hero.

Cpl. Hayes

January 28, 2011

My condolences to the Baitinger family and the St.Petersburg Police Department. Officer Tom Baitinger may you rest in peace. Thank you for making the ultimate sacrifice in protecting the citizens. Your memory will continue to live one through your family, friends, and the police department. Rest in peace precious angel rest in peace.

Pat Canfall

January 28, 2011

Thanks S23 for the ultimate sacrifice. We can never repay all that you have given to us, the citizens of St.Petersburg,FL. May you rest in the arms of the Lord. To the families and friends of these fine men of honor, thank you for sharing them will us.

Wendi Ross

January 28, 2011

As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.

chad smith

January 28, 2011

S23 TJB, you will be dearly missed. May your memory be eternal. I love you dearly PGB and will be there for you every step of the way.

Vivian G

January 28, 2011

May the outpouring of love and support from the residents of Pinellas County, the State of Florida, and citizens throughout the nation, give your wife, Paige,and family some measure of comfort and solace. We will be forever grateful for your ultimate sacrifice, and theirs. Youare in heaven in the wondrous presence of God the Father and your Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, where there is no pain, but only eternal bliss, and where you will one day be joyously reunited with those who miss your loving presence.

James Robinson

January 28, 2011

Rest in Peace, Tom. You will be remembered as a really good guy: always polite, kind, caring, and your trumpet playing - never strident! Prayers and love to all your family.

Georgi Ballweg

January 28, 2011

I am so sorry for your loss. You are in my thoughts and prayers at this most difficult time.

Eileen Frank

January 28, 2011

God Bless and rest in peace.

Fred Tagtmeier Lt. Ret

January 28, 2011

Tom, you were always a good guy. Although I only knew you in high school, I kept tabs on you, and I was always proud to have known you. My prayers and love go out to your family, friends, and the law enforcement community.

Georgette M Ballweg

January 28, 2011

God be you and your wife and protect you and your fellow officers. And also protect them as well.

Julie

January 28, 2011

Love you brother!. I already miss you. 24 Years of knowing you is not enough, but I guess it will just have to do. Rest in Peace Tommy!

Pete Hilger

January 28, 2011

May God's peace be over you and your loved ones and give you serenity, peace, comfort, and strength. May his memory live forever in your hearts....they will never be forgotten

January 28, 2011

Peace be with you and your family. You have touched many people with your faith and courage. God bless and watch over your family.

Steve Wuertz

January 28, 2011

MAY YOU REST IN ETERNAL PEACE.MAY YOUR FAMILY BE BLESS WITH GOD'S BLESSING,AND
YOUR MEMORY LIVE FOREVER.

RAYMOND TORO

January 28, 2011

We will miss you. Thank you for making us safe. Their is no words that I can say how sorry I am for your loss. My Prayers are with you.

Toyanne Mort

January 28, 2011

To help bear you burden, I will be praying for the Family to help understand what has happened to Thomas. I am a retired Detective Lieutenant and know what you must be going through. Nothing can be said to heal the sorrow, but you can yourself by joining other survivors and talk about what you are thinking. Thomas will not have to carry that sidearm anymore for his job anymore and will be at peace with his heavenly Chief. Peace be with you and God Bless.

Francis D'Amico

January 28, 2011

May the spirit of Tom live on in his wife. May God comfort you and your family in this time of sorrow. God Bless You.

Betsy Risso

January 28, 2011

May God keep your family safe in his hands & may they rely on your understanding faith and mercy at all times.

Dixie Durcan

January 28, 2011

My brother is an SPPD officer, and knew Officer Baitinger well. My prayers are with you in this time of indescribable loss. I pray that God will hold you in His comfort, as He is now holding Tom in His grace.

Heather Kosky (nee Carnes)

January 28, 2011

I am so sorry for your loss. Thank you for sharing your loved one with us and allowing us to try to share your grief. We appreciate his service to us and for the unmeasured generosity with which he did his job.

Debi Butler

January 28, 2011

May God bless your family and hold them in his heart and guide them thru this trying time. Thank you Tom for being a hero to our community.

Carol Walker

January 28, 2011

Good job faithful servent! Your duty here is done. God Bless You & your family, St.Petersburg Police Dept. & Law Enforcement Officers everywhere.

Ofc. Kenny Davenport
Clearwater Police Dept. (Ret.)

January 28, 2011

Dear Paige and Baitinger Family:
We are all in shock. I'm crying for you and Tom. What a big sacrifice for all of you to make. It's so hard to think of his jovial attitude and big smile as gone to us. Please know that we are here for you and have you in our thoughts constantly at this very difficult time. Wish we could wrap our arms around you and make the hurt lessen.
Love-Susan and Larry Sousa-Seminole Florida

January 28, 2011

God bless your family in these moments. As an employee from Miami-Dade Police we just went through our loss this week. Our prayers are with you.

Mario Bravo

January 28, 2011

to the family and friends of Sargent Thomas Baitinger, my thoughts and prayers are with all of you at this very difficult time, thank you to Sargent Baitinger for all he did and gave to his community, may God bless all of you, sincerely, Cathy Sants, Englewood, Florida

January 28, 2011

My heart is profoundly grieving for Paige and all of Tom's family and police family. Several times my husband and I rode along in the squad car of one of my husband's 2 brothers who were policemen in Ft. Wayne, Ind. One of my brothers-in-law finished his 3rd shift work came home and falling to the floor of the bathroom of their home. Dead of a massive heart attack....we know your pain...I was dumbfounded today when learning of Tom's stroke in the past...I am a stroke survivor. Dig deep into your faith and know that SO many folks are holding you tightly before the Lord as you find comfort and peace...God bless your family and the police family of St. Pete.

Bonnie Hoover

January 28, 2011

Thank you doesn't seem to be enough, for the service you gave to the community. God Bless you and your family. You may be gone but you will never be forgotten.

Elizabeth Marshall

January 28, 2011

im so sorry for your lost. all of yall are in my prayers

carolyn plaskiewicz

January 28, 2011

God Bless the family and may you find peace in your heart and enormous amount of love pouring out near and far to you and yours.Peace be with you and your family.

Dorraine Baltzell

January 28, 2011

God Bless the family and may He grant your heart peace in knowing that we will meet up with Tom again one day. All of us. May you find peace in your heart and feel the enormous amount of love pouring out from near and far to you and yours. We may not all know you as God would? But we are all assured that we are with you in spirit. You do not walk alone. Peace be with you from my family to yours.

Cyntthia Sterba

January 28, 2011

God Bless you all. God gave us a good officer in Tom. Tom took care of not only his family but the community he lived in. As a police officer he protected all of us. God took him home and we will not understand why however you now have an angel in heaven who will watch over you and will always be withyou in your heart. God Bless you and be with you. (Sandy Dorer, Lakeland, FL)

January 28, 2011

You are a hero and now you will have your wings to watch over everyone. God Bless

January 28, 2011

I am so sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time.

Lori Burke

January 28, 2011

My Condolence to the family, friends and fellow officers of Sgt. Thomas Baitinger!

With deepest sympathy
A Belgian officer

christel

January 28, 2011

So sorry. Blessings to your family as they learn to live with this loss.

Debra Barker

January 28, 2011

To the Baitinger Family, My deepest regrets for the loss of a wonderful Son, Father, Husband and as a Sgt in the police force. May the lord be with his fellow officers that Tom worked with may he be their guardian angel to watch over them and keep them safe from harm........



God bless you and all his fellow officers for putting their lives on the line everyday serving our communities.

Joanie Meier-Stayner

January 28, 2011

Thank you Sgt. Baitinger for your service and dedication to our community. May God Bless You, your family, friends, and fellow officers.
RIP.
With Deepest Sympathy,
Kim

Kim Level

January 28, 2011

So sorry for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you, your family, friends and fellow officers during this time of sorrow.

Becky Kelly

January 28, 2011

All are in our prayers. May the peace that passes understanding be yours.

Kandy Chicarell

January 28, 2011

We cannot begin to express our deepest regret and condolences, and our everlasting gratitude for the commitment of our law enforcement officers. Sgt. Baitinger will never be forgotten, nor will his selfless action of putting the safety of others before his own safety.

May God accept you into everlasting peace and eternity, Sgt. Baitinger.

Cory & Lori Spankowski

January 28, 2011

RIP Sgt. Baitinger, God bless your entire family and keep them same

January 28, 2011

My deepest sympathy

Mrs. Sam Lynn

January 28, 2011

Dear Baitinger Family,
Tom clearly has touch hundreds of lives in a very special way. He was my 1st boyfriend-- although as a 12-year-old, it probably lasted less than a week-- I will always remember him fondly.

My heartfelt sympathy to Tom's wife, his parents and siblings, and all the courageous officers who continue to be our heroes everyday. Please be comforted in knowing that Tom is your special guardian angel now, diligently watching over and protecting you all.

Betsy Havel-Dobson

January 28, 2011

God Bless you Sgt. Baitinger. God Bless your family, friends and fellow officers. May all of you find strength in each other at this time and know that there are many who hurt along with you. You are not alone!

Caroline Siple

January 28, 2011

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