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Jeffrey Puls Obituary

PULS Lt. Jeffrey L. Puls, age 57, of Orient, passed away suddenly while on-duty Saturday March 14, 2009. Lt. Puls was a 36 year veteran of the Columbus Division of Police. He planned major police operations such as Red, White & Boom, Ohio State University football games, and responses to major demonstrations. He was the ranking official directing officers' responses and tactics to major events. Further, Lt. Puls developed and trained the entire Division on managing field force responses. His most recent involvement was President Barack Obama's visit to Columbus. Lt. Puls' regular assignment was the first shift lieutenant where he was the Watch Commander over Downtown, Campus Area, and Northwest Columbus. He was a Division helicopter pilot from 1984-1988 and commanded the helicopter unit in 1995 and 1996. He modernized the unit and brought in jet turbine helicopters to replace the outdated, slower, piston-engine helicopters. Lt. Puls continued to maintain his flight status and formerly flew as a relief pilot for Life Flight at Grant Medical Center. He was a member of the FOP Capital City Lodge #9, the Grove City United Methodist Church where he held many leadership positions, and held memberships with pilot associations, the EAA and AOPA. Lt. Puls graduated from the FBI National Academy and Mt. Vernon Nazarene College. Preceded in death by his father George W. Puls and sister Janice Sheridan. Survivors include his wife, Donna Puls; mother, Deelores Puls; mother-in-law, Margaret Moon; brother-in-law, Gary (Dianne) Moon; sister, Joni (Tim) Sparks and Judy (Mike) Maynard; several nieces, nephews and a host of dear friends. Friends may visit on Tuesday, March 17, 2009 from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. with an FOP service at 7 p.m. at the Grove City United Methodist Church, 2684 Columbus St., Grove City, where funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. Wednesday, March 18, 2009. Rev. Dr. Dennis Miller and Rev. Dr. Carl Wiley officiating. In lieu of flowers donations can be made in Lt. Jeffrey L. Pul's memory to the Grove City United Methodist Church Building Fund. Arrangements completed with the SPENCE-MILLER FUNERAL HOME, 2697 Columbus St., Grove City. Online guestbook at www.spencemillerfuneralhome.com

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Columbus Dispatch on Mar. 16, 2009.

Memories and Condolences
for Jeffrey Puls

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Benjamin Presley

April 9, 2009

Donna,
I would follow Jeff to the end of the world and back. He was a true leader and will be missed!
God bless!

Richard Puls

March 22, 2009

Donna never met you but Jeff was my cousin
and we had many good times as kids. I remember so vividly our vacations as children. Jeff and his family would drive to Phoenix and we would vacation together. I can remember so well riding in a Mercury station wagon with Jeff my brother Bob and I in the back, Bob and I went along to keep Jeff company. Fought the whole time with Jeff's sisters. The entire vacation was a comedy of errors. I am so sorry for your loss will keep you in our prayers. Richard & Becky Puls

Erin Todd

March 22, 2009

I'm so sorry, I never knew him but my ,uncle ,grandma , and mom did (who are kelly griffith , susan moon and scott griffith , and iam kellys daughter, and i am so sorry that he died , he was a really good man!

Kelly Griffith

March 22, 2009

Donna,
I am so sorry to hear this news. I have very fond memories of Jeff (including his smile and dimples). He was such a bright, intelligent man and the world is a lesser place without him. Please know that we are praying for you and your family. I wanted to let you know that Jeff is the main reason why my brother Scott is saving up to be a helicopter pilot. He was a outstanding and inspiring role model. He will be greatly missed by everyone that knew him.(Much Love from Susan Moon's daughter)

Lindsey Cardenell

March 21, 2009

Donna,
I had the privilege of working with Lt. Puls at the OSU football games. I always enjoyed listening to his stories about flying, He was one of the best Lt's that I have ever worked for. I will always remember his wonderful smile. My most deepest sympathy is with you and your family. -Lindsey Cardenell (Hilliard, OH)

Louis Foster CPD, ret'd

March 21, 2009

When I met Jeff in 1978 he was learning to fly. He seemed to be focused on what he wanted in life. He seemed to have the sense of peace which comes from as life lived with integrity.

I met him when CDP was hiding me at the heliport and he seemed like a good guy back then. His reputation over the following years proved that.

Susan Moon

March 21, 2009

Donna, please accept my deepest sympathies and heartfelt regret on the passing of Jeff. My family and I were shocked to find out about this most distressing news. He was a kind man and great police officer and left us much too young. You and your family are in my prayers and may God help you through your most difficult hours.

Tony Ruppersberg

March 20, 2009

I was a rookie sergeant on 9 pct., and Jeff was a rookie P.O. assigned there whe he first hired on. I had the pleasure of working with Jeff frequently through the years. He was a classic example of a "good cop". You can't say more about a man than that.

Glenn Eggleston Ret. Sgt CPD

March 20, 2009

So sorry to hear of Jeff's passing. He was a very good police officer, and a kind and gentile man. He will be missed by all.

Ray Eckles

March 20, 2009

I had the pleasure of working with Jeff in Patrol and Helicopters. In all of my years with CPD, no one personified "devotion to duty" more than Jeff. He always, always, always looked to do the right thing - even when the right thing was harder and more difficult. God bless Jeff and his loved ones.

Rick Mann

March 20, 2009

Donna,
Please accept my deepest sympathies. As you know, Jeff was my mentor on Zone 4 for many, many years. Working closely with Jeff in tactical and Field Force planning created a very close friendship based on respect and admiration. I loved Jeff and I am saddened beyond words. May God bless...

Rick Mann
Lt.-4-C (ret.)

Calvin Holt

March 20, 2009

Although I didn't have the privilege of working with Jeff, I have been friends with him since his early years in Patrol. He is one of those guys that left a good impression with everyone and was fun to be around. Always looked for and spoke to him at Lane and Neil on Buckeye game day. May God's love comfort you in your loss. Cal Holt

Jack Turner

March 18, 2009

Donna
It's a sad day for anyone whoever worked with Jeff or had him for a friend. I had some good times with him flying the Helicopter.

President Jim Gilbert FOP Capital City Lodge #9

March 18, 2009

You will be sadly missed by many people including your family at the Fraternal Order of Police. You touched several lives and will not be forgotten---God bless!

David Morgan

March 18, 2009

Donna,
I am so sorry for your loss. Jeff was a Great person & Police Officer. He was truly one of the nicest individuals that I have ever met. He will be greatly missed throughout the Division Of Police. Our thoughts & prayers are with you! From your classmate & friend. Take Care And God Bless!

Sgt. Don Bissett

March 18, 2009

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

Jan Scharenberg

March 18, 2009

My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort. I did not know Jeff well, but servied with him on the Finance committee for several years. His leadership in the church and community will be greatly missed.

Carol Osborn

March 18, 2009

Donna,
I was so saddened to hear about the loss of Jeff. I worked for Ohio Vision Group and had the pleasure of meeting and getting to know you two! Jeff made everyone feel like they had a special place in his heart and he was loved by all who knew him.
I will keep you in my prayers.

Love,
Carol Osborn

Denise Harlow-Powell

March 17, 2009

Condolences to the Puls family.

I went to High School with Joni. One winter night when I was 18 I found myself going the wrong way on a one way street in downtown Columbus. Being from a suburb one way streets were rare. Officer Puls pulled me over. When I saw his name I asked if he knew Joni, he said she was his sister, why did I ask. I told him we went to school together. He handed back my license, told me to be more careful and in honor of his sister, he would let me go this time. I never forgot that night.

May you all find peace knowing your loved one is walking in the gardens with God today and you will see him again.

Charles Emery (CPD Retired)

March 17, 2009

Another fine officer is called home. We reason not why but give thanks for the time he was with us. We will miss you Lt. Jeff, may peace be with you and your family.

March 17, 2009

Dear Lt., It is with great sadness that the report of your passing has come. I am burdened once again as to why the best of our profession must leave so suddenly. The memories that you have left with us truly count, in ways that are more heartfelt than said. You are a true professional. A man who gave his entire adult life working for the division. A true leader! I want to thank you for being a shining example of what a supervisor representing the Columbus Division of Police should be. It was my privilege to serve you.
My condolences Donna.
James M. Harmon

David Nitzsche

March 17, 2009

I am so sorry to hear of Jeff's passing. I was in Jeff's class at Mt. Vernon Nazarene College and found him not only a great guy but a credit to the CPD. I know he will be missed. I am sorry for your loss.

Allen & Beth Liming

March 17, 2009

Donna, we can't find the words to express our shock when we heard the news. Butch and I are very saddened by Jeff's loss. We will miss him dearly on Sunday mornings. If you need anything please call us.

DG Edgerton

March 17, 2009

Donna:

What a shock to learn of Jeff's passing. I still remember the time he flew up here to see me. Please accept my deepest sympathy. You will be in our thoughts and prayers. Let me know how I can help.

DG Edgerton

Steve & Sally Turner

March 17, 2009

I am Sharon Thompson's sister. We were all together when they found out about Paul's passing. We are so sorry and our prayers are with you that our Lord will wrap his loving arms of peace and comfort around you.

Judy Maynard (Puls)

March 17, 2009

Donna,
Over these past few years there have been so many times I've wanted to get in touch. Unfortunately, time has a way of running out. Believe me when I say I am so very, very sorry for your loss. I still can't believe I won't see him again.

Kerry Karner

March 17, 2009

Donna,
We are so very sorry to hear of Jeff's passing. Even now, we look for Jeff to come by our house while he is taking his walk or wave as he is driving by. He was a great man, a good neighbor and he will be greatly missed.
Kerry and Angie Karner (Hiner Rd neighbors)

Andrea (A.J.) Barrett Retired CPD

March 17, 2009

I know God needed an "organizer" in Heaven, so He called Jeff up to take care of things. Having worked with Jeff for years, I know what a blessing he was to others. May you receive comfort in knowing Jeff was loved by everyone he came in contact. We loved him, but God loved him best.

Mike and Jody Mathews

March 17, 2009

Donna, we are so sorry for your loss and you will be in our prayers. Jeff's words in September 2001 still ring in my ear when someone asked him, "How can you be a cop and a Christian?" Jeff's response was, "How can you be a cop and not be a Christian?" Thanks for all the great advise Jeff.

Shirley & Dick Arledge

March 17, 2009

Donna
You have our deepest sympathy.
So Sorry we can not be there

Shirley and Dick Arledge

Brenda Lieberman, CPD Retired & Robert Benham, CPD Retired

March 16, 2009

We are saddened by the news of Jeff's passing. Forever imprinted in our hearts, he was a strong yet compassionate person. He will be missed very much.

Paul Vierow

March 16, 2009

Dear Delores, Joni and Judy
In expressing our sympathy for your loss of Jeff, we pray that your time of sorrow will be balanced with the sweet hope of the blessed reunion with Jeff and our Lord Jesus. We pray also that you find comfort in your wonderful memories of Jeff and his extraordinary contribution to the safety of the community.

With our sympathy and prayer,

Pat Melcher and Paul Vierow

Nicole Tussing

March 16, 2009

Donna, I am so very sorry for your loss. Jeff was a great person and he will be deeply missed at the office:(

Amber & Jason Herbster

March 16, 2009

Donna,
Jason & I were so saddened to hear of Jeff's sudden passing. He was truly a great man and touched so many people's lives. We always looked forward to seeing him on game day! You are in our thoughts & prayers.
Love,

Patti Shaner-Dolby

March 16, 2009

Donna and family,
I was so sorry to learn of Jeff passing away. He was one of a kind.I so enjoyed working with him and spending time with you both.If anyone can do it, he will have St Peter laughing in no time.
Patti Shaner-Dolby

Melinda Arp

March 16, 2009

Donna, there are no words I can express for your loss. You and Jeff were always there whenever I had problems; from my Dad's store on the Hilltop to my recent financial problems. You both are very special to me. No one will ever be able to replace Jeff but all the love and memories will keep you strong. I will always be here for you so please call anytime. Melinda

Jim & Dondi Miller

March 16, 2009

Donna...We are so saddened to learn about Jeff. We have wonderful memories of both of you here at the airport and will miss watching Jeff fly over in his Kitfox. You are in our thoughts and prayers. Jeff will be missed.

Donald Sexton

March 16, 2009

Donna, I remember our meeting during Field Force Training. I am so sorry for this untimely loss. May God comfort and bless all with fond memories and may He give added strength and brighter hope for the future. I have a belief and hope to again fly with Jeff someday. (Don Sexton, CPD, retired)

John Morgan

March 16, 2009

Donna,
I attended junior high school with Jeff and later served with him in the CPD. Jeff was a outstanding person, consistent and caring throughout his life. My prayers are with you and the rest of his family and friends for this loss.

Rick Perez

March 16, 2009

To the Family of Jeffrey Puls:
My deepest sympathies. Jeff and I attended the FBI National Academy together in 1995. Jeff was a good man and will be missed by all.
Rick Perez
Chief Deputy
Stark County Sheriff's Office
NA 182nd.

Renee Gifford

March 16, 2009

Donna: Sometimes I feel as though I personally know you and Jeff as Beverly and I are friends. I've had a few good laughs and have sent a few good prayers your way over the years. And, now comes a most heartfelt prayer for you, your families and friends. With thoughts of love, Renee

Marc and Beverly Rinehart

March 16, 2009

Our world, as we know it, will never be the same since Jeff''s passing. The void it leaves will be dark and cold, but our joy is truly in the fact that Jeff is with our Lord. All our love and condolences go to Donna and the family.

Martina Gunther retired CPD

March 16, 2009

Donna, I am so sorry for your loss. Lt. Puls was a good man who was always smiling. He always had a kind word for me. When things got difficult on the department for me he motivated and encouraged me to hang in there. He will be sadly missed.

Steve Szeredy

March 16, 2009

Please accept my deepest condolence. I know how difficult it is to lose someone close. I hope you can find some peace in knowing that his life rewards are upon him and he may now reap the rewards of his life long work.
Keep the cherished memories close and remember the lessons he has taught.

Sincerely,


Chief Steve Szeredy
2008 FBINAA President
Ohio Chapter - 191 session

Don & Doris Hitchon

March 16, 2009

Donna, We were very sorry to hear about Jeff and our thoughts are with you in this time of grief.
Love ya cousin
Doris

Steve Ferris#711, Retired CPD

March 16, 2009

To the Family of Jeff Puls,
I will always remember his smiling face. Not only was he a great Police Officer, but a great pilot. All of us that flew with Jeff knew that we had the best training possible. Most of all, I'll remember him as a great friend.

Rob & Judy Mugnier

March 16, 2009

We were so sorry to hear about Jeff's passing and want you to know you are in our prayers. We would be there to help support you if we were not in Louisiana at this time.

Earl Davis

March 16, 2009

My heart is heavy with grief upon hearing about Jeff. I remember when Jeff joined the Police Department that he was a very special person and would go far. He was a great asset to the city of Columbus and to all he worked with. I will greatly miss him and his ever present smile. I will pray for the family and I send my heart felt condolences to all involved.

Delores Cooper

March 16, 2009

Maggie
I didn't know Mr Pulls, but i send my thoughts and prayers to you and your family.
Delores Cooper

Jeff Franklin

March 16, 2009

Donna, I am shocked and saddened beyond words. The time Jeff and I spent together as partners in the helicopter unit are some of the most meaningful of my life. My thoughts and prayers are with you in this terrible time of sorrow.

Doug McLoughlin

March 16, 2009

I am very sorry for the loss of a really good man, whith whom I worked with on numerous occasions. Always cheerful,, always cooperative and a very compenent guy. I would go to the memorial but have to be out of town, my sincere regrets

Doug McLoughlin
bomb squad -ret
Franklin Co SO

Ralph Doles

March 16, 2009

My deepest sympathies. Jeff was a great guy. Worked with him a lot on the 1998 FBI National Convention in Columbus. He will be missed.

Don Wood

March 16, 2009

Dear Puls Family, I am Don Wood, the Director of North Central Mental Health Services. Lt. Puls was so helpful to us whenever we asked. He was a professional and a gentleman. He advised us on several occasions but, in particular, I remember his help to us when we were identifying ways to intervene with "out of control" patients so that we would not have to use force or restraint in the clinical setting. His ideas helped us shape our new policies that have been much more appropriate and humane. Please accept our sincere condolences. We remember him fondly.

Jody Roach

March 16, 2009

Donna, We at Grove City United Methodist Church all loved Jeff, and his witness of his love of Christ was an inspiration to all. He will be greatly missed as he was very active in many areas of the church.
Much Love to you,
Jody and BJ Roach

Mary Myers

March 16, 2009

To the Family of Jeffrey Puls:
I, also, am so saddened by the sudden death of Jeffrey. I knew Jeffrey through the FBI National Police Academy. He was so kind and always had a smile on his face. I hope that you find comfort in the memories you have of him and the knowledge that your loss is shared by many.
Retired Captain Mary Myers
Akron Police
NA 182nd

Barbara & Kimberly Barnhart

March 16, 2009

Donna, I was so shocked and saddened to hear about Jeff. You know that we have always thought so highly of both of you and cannot imagine a world without Jeff and his smile. You are in our hearts and prayers.

kim ullom

March 16, 2009

Donna, Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. Your neighbors Diane, Mark Kim Jess and Jake

Gregory Homer

March 16, 2009

From another NA Grad and fellow cop of 35+ years, one of Columbus's best moves on to his final roll-call.

GEORGE ISEL, JR

March 16, 2009

TO THE FAMILY OF JEFFERY PULS:
I WANT TO EXPRESS MY CONDOLENCE ON THE LOSS OF YOUR LOVED ONE. I WORKED WITH JEFF ON THE WESTSIDE AT 8 . I WAS A NEW RESERVE OFFICER FOR COLUMBUS POLICE AND JEFF WAS A DEAR FRIEND AND A VERY GOOD OFFICER. I KNOW HE WILL BE MISSED BY ALL .OFFICERS LIKE JEFF ONLY COME AROUND ONCE IN A GREAT WHILE. HE IS IN GODS HANDS NOW AND GOD HAS A GOOD MAN WITH JEFF AT HIS SIDE.

GEORGE ISEL JR. # 277

Beth Arledge

March 16, 2009

Donna:
I was so deeply saddened to hear this devastating news. I'm always at a loss for words, but know that your burden is felt in my heart and thoughts and prayers of many are with you now and always.
In deepest sympathy,

George Smith

March 16, 2009

Donna, I am so sorry for your loss. I pray God surrounds you in his loving arms and with the thought and promise that you will be united once again and forever when the Lord chooses. As always, if you need anything do not hesitate to call.

L.D. Barry

March 16, 2009

The City of Columbus has lost agreat man. Thank you for your many years of service.

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