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Andrew Widman Obituary

WIDMAN Andrew Allen Fallen Officer Andrew Allen Widman, 30, of Cape Coral, Florida, was killed in the line of duty on July 18, 2008. He was born on May 11, 1978, in Toledo, Ohio, the son of Joseph and Martha (Thomson) Widman. On May 13, 2000, he married Susanna (Rickards) Widman and she survives. He attended Toledo Christian School, graduating in 1996. He graduated from Toccoa Falls College (Toccoa Falls, Georgia) in 1999 with a bachelor's degree in Biblical Languages and Missions. He then graduated from Gordon Conwell Theological Seminary in South Hamilton, Massachusetts, with a Master of Divinity degree. He served as a college minister for Grace Church in Toledo, Ohio. In April 2007, he became a police officer for the Fort Myers Police Department in Fort Myers, Florida. After several trips with Overseas Mission Fellowship (OMF), his ultimate goal was to work on the mission field in the land of Thailand. Besides his loving wife and parents, he is survived by his three beautiful children, Samuel Joseph, Sasha Marie, and Sylvia Jane. He is survived by his grandmother, Wilma Widman and siblings, Abigail (Joseph) Hillrich, Alyse Widman, and Tony Widman. He is also survived by a niece, Sophia Elaine Hillrich and a nephew, Josiah Joseph Hillrich. He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Norman Widman and Ralph and Dorothy Thomson. Rest in peace Andy with the Savior you knew so well. A Memorial Service will be held Sunday, July 27th, at 3:00 p.m. at Grace Church, 3700 Dorr St., Toledo, Ohio 43607 (419) 535-0060. Contributions in Andrew's loving memory may be made to Fifth Third Bank, c/o The Andrew Widman Memorial Fund, Account #7432124563.

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Published by The Blade on Jul. 25, 2008.

Memories and Condolences
for Andrew Widman

Not sure what to say?





Donna Duggan

July 15, 2023

May your beautiful be with your family on this day.

Beth Busdicker

March 26, 2011

Joe, Marty, Abby, Alyse & Tony,
Although the guest book may go offline, you are all in my prayers daily and Andy will always remain in my heart, my actions and the way I live my life. Your entire family continues to impact my life, and the lives of the hundreds of children I teach - in a loving, positive, Christian manner. Andy will never be forgotten!! May the Lord continue to be with you as you carry the burden of grief and loss. Love to all, Beth

Tony Goliszeski

March 26, 2011

As I approach my retirement I think of all those who have stepped up and held the thin blue line. Andrew walks among angels and knows a peace none of us can know. God Bless. Detective Tony Goliszeski C.C.P.D.

Bernadette Reilly

March 26, 2011

Susanna you & your family continue to be in my thoughts & prayers. We are praying for the "peace that passeth all understanding."

Russell Kendrick

September 13, 2008

Susanna,
I never knew your husband but I do know that a woman who comes from a great Christian family like yours would have picked a great man also. My family and I are still praying for you and your family and pray for God to reveal that his will and grace is always perfect. We pray for your comfort and healing.

Lauren Rabb

August 24, 2008

I was a freshman at TFC when Andy & Susanna graduated. I didn't know them well, but I clearly remember the love for God, each other and others that overflowed from their lives.

Mike & Deb klein

August 15, 2008

I know they say time helps heal the pain,and I hope with time a little pain will go away. Keep your faith and stay strong. God bless you and your family . Andy will stay in alot of people thoughts allways.

Norbert Widman

August 10, 2008

My prayers and deepest sympathy are with the family and friends of Andrew. May God give you the strength to endure your terrible loss.

daniel larzelere

August 9, 2008

god bless you family and andrew my brother was one of your best friends matt larzelere he cried when we told him the news. --daniel--

Danny & Joanie Keister

August 7, 2008

We knew Andy when he was very young growing up at Westgate Chapel in Toledo Ohio we pray everyday for his family that God will heal the broken hearts that have been left behind. God bless you Andy.

Harvey Thomas

August 3, 2008

I did not know this officer, but it is obvious that he touched many lives. It is so touching to see the outreaching support of everyone. God bless the family. He has an angel on the way.

Blessings to the family in Jesus' name.

Larry & Kathy Darr

August 3, 2008

Dear Widman Family,

Our prayers go up for all of you. We were just devastated when we heard the news. Our hearts are grieving with you. Andy was such a good guy. The world could use more folks like Andy. We remember Andy at Toledo Christian Schools at the Cross Country and Track meets. He and our son, Aaron and daughter, Elisha, encouraged and challenged each other. I remember Andy always taking time to play with our youngest son, Josiah; he was pre-school age at the time. Josiah is now 17 and still remembers Andy. Andy and the whole Widman family impacted our entire family. Our daugher Elisha spent much time with you and felt like Andy was her big brother.

Our hearts and prayers go out to you Susanna and those dear children. We never got to meet you, but we know Andy loved you and those children dearly.

Joe, Marti, Abby, Alyse and Tony, we know that there is a big hole in your hearts right now but our Lord will fill it in time. Andy ran the race he had before him and he finished well. We don't always understand God's ways, but He has a purpose.

Taylor Spradlin

July 30, 2008

Susanna,you will stay with Andrew forever....he loved you...God had a plan for Andrew....God saw what a great hard working young man he was and still is God made this plan just for Andrew....He loved you very much the best goes to you.

Margo

July 30, 2008

I didn't know Andy or the Widman family very well; however, what I do remember is a family that was full of love and kindness. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you following this tragic loss.

With Love,
The Lovett and Hooyenga families

Michael Fillak

July 28, 2008

Godspeed Andy, you will be missed.

Anita Santos

July 28, 2008

You'll never be forgotten, Andrew. 112, Service Before Self. Your family is our family. RIP, brother.

Rhonda (& Tony) Tomase

July 28, 2008

Dear Martha, Joe and family;
My heart breaks for all of you and for our family in the tragic loss of this special man to our world. Andy was such a wonderful, caring, giving person who was wise beyond his years. I remember fondly the times I used to babysit him when he was a child, and when you all attended my birthday party a few years ago, and the meaningful conversations we've had in the past. I have always been so proud and honored to be his cousin, and I think so much of your family and love you with all my heart. We will keep you in our prayers, and I will be in touch to help in any way I can.
May God continue to bless you all,

Teena Ward

July 28, 2008

Deepest sympathy. The family of Officer Widman is in our thoughts and prayers. God bless.
Mr. and Mrs. Ward

Don patterson

July 27, 2008

on behalf of me and my wife phyllis, we are putting the family of andrew in our prayers, god bless them and help them through this time

Tristan Verducci

July 27, 2008

great site

Lillian Amand

July 27, 2008

My heart goes out to the Widman family. My thoughts and prayers are with his lovely wife and 3 beautiful children. Andrew is truely a hero. May his legacy live on in his wife and children. May god bless you Susanna and give you the strength to get through this difficult time.

Pam and Joe Hardy

July 27, 2008

Our thoughts, prayers, and hearts are with all of you. May your faith help you through it now and in the future.

July 27, 2008

May god bless andrew and his family. May there work of helping others continue through all people on earth.

Cherie Hancock

July 27, 2008

To the Widman Family - it's pretty easy to see by the number of entries in this beautiful guest book, that Andrew Widman is truly a hero. Even though I did not know you or him, after watching the very beautiful and emotional memorial service, I felt as though I did. This senseless tragedy has left a mark on my heart and the hearts of many, many others. It's a blessing that you have such a strong faith, and a wonderful family and many friends, to support you and Andrew's parents and extended family at this time. You will be strong for your children as all mothers are, and you all will be in my thoughts and prayers.

Tracy Athey

July 26, 2008

I did not know Andy or do I know his family. However, my daughter (10 yrs. old) and I have been reading up on his story. We want to thank you for standing behind your husband, your best friend, in sharing him with our community and making the ultimate sacrifice. I watched your eulogy and commend you for being able to stand up and share your kind words with everyone. God Bless you and your family. It's nice knowing we all have Andy as a guardian angel up there.

Betty Powell

July 26, 2008

A couple of weeks ago, my husband and I were in the "Green Tomatoes" having supper and as I went to make my dinner choices I passed two police officers sitting in a booth having their own meal. I have NO idea why I suddenly stopped but I did and expressed to the officers how much they were appreciated for being our protecters and asked God's blessings and safety for them.
The minute I heard about the cruel deed done to Officer Widman I wondered if he might have been one of the officers I spoke to. If so, I'm glad I stopped to speak to them, if not, I wish it had have been. Our fearless police do not get the credit they so deserve.
God wanted Andy home with him for some reason even tho it means leaving a young family, but I'm sure He has a purpose for our loss and His gain. Keep the faith and continue to look upward.
God bless and keep you, the family, and give you peace and understanding.
My sorrow, heart and prayers are with you always.

The Cole Family

July 26, 2008

May the Lord be with you in this time of sorrow. GOD BLESS.

To my dearest family, some things I'd like to say...
but first of all, to let you know, that I arrived okay.
I'm writing this from heaven. Here I dwell with God above.
Here, there's no more tears of sadness; here is just eternal love.

Please do not be unhappy just because I'm out of sight.
Remember that I'm with you every morning, noon and night.
That day I had to leave you when my life on earth was through,
God picked me up and hugged me and He said, "I welcome you."

It's good to have you back again; you were missed while you were gone.
As for your dearest family, they'll be here later on.
I need you here badly; you're part of my plan.
There's so much that we have to do, to help our mortal man."

God gave me a list of things that he wished for me to do.
And foremost on the list, was to watch and care for you.
And when you lie in bed at night, the day's chores put to flight.
God and I are closest to you....in the middle of the night.

When you think of my life on earth, and all those loving years
because you are only human, they are bound to bring you tears.
But do not be afraid to cry; it does relieve the pain.
Remember there would be no flowers, unless there was some rain.

I wish that I could tell you all that God has planned.
But if I were to tell you, you wouldn't understand.
But one thing is for certain, though my life on earth is o'er.
I'm closer to you now, than I ever was before.

There are many rocky roads ahead of you and many hills to climb;
but together we can do it by taking one day at a time.
It was always my philosophy and I'd like it for you too...
that as you give unto the world, the world will give to you.

If you can help somebody who's in sorrow and pain,
then you can say to God at night......"My day was not in vain."
And now I am contented....that my life has been worthwhile,
knowing as I passed along the way, I made somebody smile.

So if you meet somebody who is sad and feeling low,
just lend a hand to pick him up, as on your way you go.
When you're walking down the street, and you've got me on your mind;
I'm walking in your footsteps only half a step behind.

And when it's time for you to go.... from that body to be free,
remember you're not going.....you're coming here to me.

Ruth Ann Mahaffey (author)
©Copyright 1998-2008

willaim havens

July 26, 2008

im very sorry for your lost. i dont know what you are going though. so i cant say that much. but my father works for the state of florida as a correction guard. and i know that me and my mother can get that call that something as happen.

Rachel Karouzos

July 26, 2008

Bradley Ades I'm praying for you after such an event. I have missed you so much from Ft.Myers Middle and I thank God that you were not injured. I'm so sorry for your loss & I will continue to pray for you.
God Bless,
Rachel (the pirate gypsy queen)

July 25, 2008

Dear Widman Family,

My families hearts are with you all. Lets all celebrate Andy going home where we will see our loved ones again one day.

DONNA RIVERA

July 25, 2008

Take comfort in knowing that now you have a special guardian angel to watch over you.

Annette

July 25, 2008

I do not know Andrew, but I am grateful for how he fought for our country. I am so sorry he had to lose his life doing so. God Bless your family.

Ruth Boyd

July 25, 2008

My condolences to you and your family. I know how it is when you lose a love one. What I can only say is keep holding on to your kids and family and trust in God to help you and yours through this. My family and I will keep praying for you and your family.

mario delgado

July 25, 2008

god bless andrew widman family
me and my family pay respect to him
and all police department.

our american hero

Alicia Santiago

July 25, 2008

Your family will always be in our prayers. Thank God Andrew knew Jesus and is now happy for eternity. I used to be a native of Lee County but now live in Manatee but still consider Lee my home and always read the News Press on my computer.

Jenna Steele

July 25, 2008

I am so sorry for your loss. Your family remains in my daily prayers. Susanna, You are an amazing woman and the word's you spoke of your husband at the funeral were truely remarkable. God Bless you Susanna and I hope you find comfort through God's grace.

Patricia Schermerhorn

July 25, 2008

I do not know the family or Andrew but wanted you all to know I appreciate all that he and his family has sacrificed. No one should loose a child, no woman should loose a young husband and no child should be without their father. God Bless the family of Andrew Allen Widman an American Hero.

Rose Cromie

July 25, 2008

My deepest condolences are with you and your beautiful children. As the days and weeks pass and you return to life's routine, May you continue to feel the comfort by the Love and Support of all your family and friends. Andy is and always will remain a HERO. Please, if there is anything else I can do for you, contact me at LCSO communications. All my love.

Dianne Highfield-Scheri

July 25, 2008

Suzanna & Family, Andy presented courage to do the right thing & his FAITH is unmeasurable.I believe, he has brightened our community. Much love & respect, Dianne Scheri

Mari and Mike Hopp

July 25, 2008

Jesus comfort and guide you and your children May His arms of love sustain, give comfort wipe away all tears in time. I understand.
God bless. Song that Helped me
is All is Well with my soul

Sue "Susie" (Widman) & Frank La Salvia

July 25, 2008

Dear Susanna,
Andy's dad Joe is my first cousin. We grew up together in Fremont, Ohio. We loved Joe and Marty and remember good times talking to them at cross country meets. Our oldest daughter and Andy were the same age so we ended up at several of the same events. If Andy as an adult was anything like his parents, he must have been very special. My heart is saddened for you and all of Andy's family. I can't find the right words to express how badly I feel for your loss Susanna. May God give you inner strength that will see you through these very difficult times and with the love and support of your families they will help you smile again. I am deeply sorry that your beautiful children have lost their daddy, the love of your life.
You will continue to be in my thoughts and prayers forever and always.

Maggie Lopez-Albornoz

July 25, 2008

I want to express my deepest condolences , but even though we didn't know him , I know he was a great man, father and husband, and specially because he was a man of God, and I wish that we could have met him just to let him know he made a difference in this world, should you of your beautiful kids need anything do not hesitate to contact us at Publix Store 162 Maggie and Gwen Store 200

Jim Jakubowski

July 25, 2008

Dear Widman Family:

What a terrible loss. Words cannot express my feelings for you.

God is with you, and will be with you always.

Jim and Carol Jakubowski
Toledo, Ohio

J Coryell

July 25, 2008

As the days pass, may you find comfort in remembering the love and faith you shared with Andy and will be sharing with your three beautiful children. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your entire family.
If you haven't had the chance to read The Shack by William Young, please try to do so. This book can only deepen your faith.

Tracie Johnson

July 25, 2008

Dear Family,
I feel the void for you and your family! Some things happen for senseless reasons and we are left to pick up our lives and move on. You & your family have the support of people you will never know but our hearts are with you. Stay strong and remember to call on your community when you are in need. We are so sorry this has happened to you. God Bless you & your children.
Mike, Tracie, Evan & Austin Johnson
Cape Coral, FL

allen schwinn

July 25, 2008

all of us at performance napa in moore haven are so sorry for your loss. all deputies in glades co. had there covers on there badges in respect to your family and there fallen brother. we will keep you in our prayers. god bless you and your family

Rachel Freyer

July 25, 2008

Dear Widman and Rickard families, and especially Susanna,

You have been in my thoughts and prayers ever since I got the terrible news. Every time I think of Andy, I think of his laughter and love of life. He was a gentle, strong, passionate, hilarious person - and he loves his Susanna and children very much. So many of my best college memories have to do with Andy and Susanna - what a merry time we've had!

In the last conversation I had with him, he said that since he was having trouble finding work to promote the positive, he'd negate the negative by working as a police officer. He succeeded in that mission, and peeled back a small corner of darkness on the night he lost his life. He is a hero, and his legacy will not be forgotten.

Though Andy is parted from us in the body, he is still with us in our memories and he is in a better place where tears are no more. We will see him again one day.

May you know true comfort, and that you are surrounded by a community that loves you very dearly. We want to help carry the burden of your sorrow.

I love you all! And my prayers continue.

Rachel

Tina Thaggard

July 25, 2008

Dear Susanna and family~
The loss of your beautiful Andrew has deeply touched my heart. I have an Andrew ~ my son ~ and am trying to understand the depth of your grief. I only know that your husband obviously lived a life that brightened SO MANY PEOPLE in this world! ...The goodness of his life is a sweet reminder of the beauty of God's grace. Even in this tragedy I feel the triumphant love of Jesus!...I am praying for you ~ even now as I write this. Although we have never met ~ we are sisters in Christ and so many other sisters and brothers are praying for your comfort and healing!
...I poured my heart into a poetic expression for you this morning and will send it to you soon. Thank you for so graciously sharing your Andrew with our community. He was so greatly loved and will be so greatly missed!
With prayer and pen,
Tina Thaggard

Ron Thompson OSP Trooper (ret)

July 25, 2008

Andy - I didn't know you in life, but we had a kinship by having been in the law enforcement profession. It pains us to see someone so young, with a loving family, and so much to live for, having their life taken away in an instant. You not only protected and served the people of your community, but your religious calling helped many more in the spiritual sense. My condoleneces to your family, and I wish you a pleasant and wonderous journey.

Crystal Henry

July 25, 2008

Dear Susanna,
I watched part of the funeral from Thailand via the internet; I am torn with grief for you and yet thankful that Andy lived a life that was pleasing to God. Paul and I were excited to one day see you on this side of the ocean but that wasn't part of God's plan. Though I didn't really know him or you very well it seems that his life was really lived out like the apostle paul's.." to live is Christ and to die is gain." I am praying for you all the time (as I have three children near the same ages as yours) and am constantly reminded to pray for you. And I pray that though the LORD has given you hardships far beyond what you can endure I pray that you might rely on Him (II Corinthians 1:8-10). Much love to you, dear sister in Christ.

dave millhorn

July 25, 2008

Rest well my brother,and watch over your family.
Dave Millhorn Retired F.M.P.D. #77

Mike McGarry

July 24, 2008

Our time in Thailand was special to everyone on the team - largely due to Andy's leadership and character. The last few days many memories and pictures from that summer have flashed unexpectedly through my mind's eye.

The beautiful thought is that Andy is worshipping Jesus Christ today with our Thai and Shan brothers and sisters in faith before the throne of God. Andy's hope was securely set on Christ - now he is secure in his Heavenly Father's presence.

Diana Binder

July 24, 2008

To Susanna and the children.

When we learned that the officer was Andy, we were all in shock. I remember meeting him only a few times when you lived behind us, because of his hours at work. But knew he loved you all very much and wanted to do anything he could for you all.

My kids were very sad, and wanted to visit you, Samuel, Sasha & Sylvia, but there were so many cars and people at your house already, we felt maybe we will wait a bit. Please know we have not forgotten about you since you moved away, and we are just down the road if you need anything. I am so glad that so many people are there for you.

When I first heard the news, I thought of you, and how much you loved him, and he you. Then I thought about the kids, and how even though they are small, they will miss Daddy. But then I remembered that he is just taking a nap waiting for the day you will all be together again in heaven. I have had moments at work this week where I just stopped to think about your family, and say a little prayer.

Sabrina and Amanda can't wait to visit you and the kids. Amanda wants you to help her with the crochet work you started with her. She is "stuck", as she puts it!

So stay strong, I know you will, kiss the kids for me, and I will see you soon. It must bring a great deal of comfort to know so many people loved Andy and your family, and are there for you in your time of need. We are all so sorry for your loss. We love you, and may God bless you all.

Your friends and neighbors,
Diana, Robert, Angelica, Sabrina, Tabitha, Amanda & Philip...
The Binder Family

Bonnie Rallo

July 24, 2008

My heart goes out to you Susanne and your three precious children. I want to help in some way, but you
don't know me...I will try to honor
Andrew by being nicer to others and
to live by the examples he has shown
us. My heart just breaks for all of you
though....if there is ever anything I can do to help in some way, please do not hesitate to contact me. I am a nurse in Punta Gorda and have lived
here for 18 years. May God be with you all.

Mitsuru, Stephen Oda

July 24, 2008

I was so sorry to hear of your loss. I remember him as a man of the sense of mission. I met with him when he was 19 years old at my daughter Sati's commencement. I trust Jesus is faithful to you. (Sati's father, from Japan)

Vita S

July 24, 2008

Dear Susanna,
I am so sorry for your loss. May your memories, the love you and Andy shared and your children give you strength to face each day. I watched the funeral and your speech was so beautiful. You are a very strong woman. I wish my donation could have been more, but I hope it helps in some way. Andy is what a true hero is. You and your family are in my thoughts. Bless you all.

Krystin Orlando

July 24, 2008

Dear Widman family,
My prayers are with you during this difficult time, and will always be from this day forward. Never forget that the state of Florida and the FMPD and its community are always here to show support for such a great man and family that was left behind so tragically. I thank you for allowing such a great person to be remembered so beautifully and perfectly. He will never be forgotten.

p

July 24, 2008

god bless,his life will shine through your childrens eyes,always with you,there are no words that will help, god, your children,family and friends and trust and faith. take care and keep the faith

Janette L'Heureux

July 24, 2008

My heart goes out to all of you. I am so sorry for your loss. My father is a retired officer and my late Uncle was a sheriff. I have the utmost respect for what Officer Widman called his "job." We will continue to pray for the family as you begin the healing process. Thank you for sharing your grief with all of us and for the ultimate sacrifice. God Bless.

Gypsy Boe

July 24, 2008

Dear Widman Family,

Our thoughts and prayers are with you. It was an honor to make a donation and shake the hand of the young Cape Coral Police Officer standing on the south corner of Santa Barbara and Veterans Pkwy.
I also asked the Cape Coral Police Officer to please relay our
Deepest Sympathy to your family. This did allow me the opportunity to Thank the Police Officer and all his fellow officers for serving our community.

"Anyone entrusted with a mission is an Angel"
...^j^...~j~...^j^...~j~...

Gypsy, Tom, Heather, Joe, Shannon, Devin and Shawn Boe

Richard Raczka

July 24, 2008

A Good Man, A Brave Man, A Man serving us, protecting us, and making the ultimate sacrifice that an officer could ever give. We will miss him, we will miss his kindness and contribution to our humanity. Rest in Peace Officer Widman, I know you are with God and I want to thank you from the bottom of my heart for all you did for us in the short time you were with us.

William Phelps

July 24, 2008

My thoughts are with your family. God bless those who serve and wear the badge with Saint Michael. You will be remembered in our community for ever.

Bill Phelps, Retired CCPD

michelle thomas

July 24, 2008

The first time I have ever missed someone I never knew. God bless you!

Jonathan Dodson

July 24, 2008

Words fail; tears are better, at least for this season. Tears tell stories where words fail, and we weep over the loss of a remarkable man, leader, and friend.

Words will work again; tears will be wiped away, both now and certainly then, in the new creation. Words will flow in glad recollection of a life lived in grace and for the glory of God.

We miss you Andy but we will not miss you forever. We love you and we will love you forever.

With broken-hearted hope,

Jonathan

Robie Dodson

July 24, 2008

We are sending our love to the entire Widman family - especially to Susanna and to Andy's parents.

We, my husband Jonathan and myself, had the privilege of attending seminary with Susanna and Andy. Andy traveled with Jonathan to Thailand, and my husband LOVED having Andy with him. We remember how excited we were when Andy agreed to go - he was disinclined, initially, to go because he felt a different country might be more suited for him. Needless to say, he changed his mind and fell in love with the Shan. They, too, are feeling the heartache of Andy's death.
While our husbands were overseas, I remember especially fondly a meal I shared with Susanna and her mother. Susanna and I are both sewers, and it was she who taught me about "husky vikings!" I now have one!
The influence of this couple has been immense. Jonathan and I have not been able to stop crying since we heard the news. We do truly believe, as did Andy, that the Lord appoints our steps. We will not faulter in our faith; however, we are truly shaken.
I cannot describe the fullness of love and prayers that we pour out on your behalf to the Almighty God. Thank you, Susanna, for your continued faithfulness. Thank you Mrs. Widman for raising such a wonderful young man and father. Our prayers will not cease for you all!

With love and admiration and sadness,
Jonathan and Robie Dodson

OH - I have to add this memory: The memory that stands out most clearly in my mind (apart from seeing Andy after he cut all his hair off!) is seeing him get off the plane from Thailand and searching the crowd for Susanna. It was truly out of a movie - I never seen a man more passionate about seeing his wife than Andy at that moment. I don't think he even said goodbye to anyone. He scooped Susanna up and away they went. It was evident to all around that Andy's love for Susanna was intense, beautiful, and overwhelming.

Becky

July 24, 2008

My prayers are with you and your family at your time of sorrow. I too lost my husband at a young age with 4 children so I do know what your going thru right now.. I promise it will get easier as time has a way of healing .. Continue to be strong and may God be with you all.. God Bless

Linda Keller

July 24, 2008

Dear Widman Family, We are so sorry for your loss of of such a young inspiring young man who was an angel on earth. He did so much for so many is his short time on this earth.Our prayers and heartfelt sympathy are with you now!

Tina Young

July 24, 2008

God Bless you and your Children
My heart and the hearts of my family are with you!!
We all are saying prayers for you..

Becky, Anthony, Sherry, & Robert

July 24, 2008

To The Family of Officer Andrew Widman - Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. May God Bless you and keep you strong.

Gwen Peterkin

July 24, 2008

My prayers and deepest sympathy goes out to the Widman family. Remember, to be absent in the body is to be present with the Lord! God bless and keep you.

Suse Singletary

July 24, 2008

We so understand your pain and loss as our family too lost our son in a tragic accident. God will see you and your family through this horrible time and one day we'll be joined together again with those who went before us...Our thoughts and prayers are with you!

Jeanne Keyser

July 24, 2008

My heart is broken for your whole family. He is with OUR Lord now. God Bless your family and know that you have MANY friends !!!!

Ken and Rosemary Stormer

July 24, 2008

Our prayers are with you during this time. May the Lord bless and keep you.

Susan Snider

July 24, 2008

I am so sorry for your loss. You are in my Prayers and thoughts. God Bless

Michelle Schmidt

July 24, 2008

My thoughts and prayers are with you. He truly left a legacy that his children will be so proud of.

Terry McCarley

July 24, 2008

My thoughts and prayers are with you during this tragic time. God Bless Mrs. Widman as she raises her three beautiful children and keep them all in your loving care.

Rose & Keith Peterson

July 24, 2008

You are in our thoughts and prayers.

Jeff Chamberlain

July 24, 2008

Andy you are going to missed ! I recall seeing you when you were no bigger than your youngest daughter. Your mom and dad always kept me up on what you were doing and where you were. Your life was dedicated to Christ and you showed it in all you did. Your work and example will continue to live in all of us who knew you. Enjoy your rewards for your service in Christ.

Sgt. Bob Millen

July 24, 2008

My condolances to the Widman family, friends and neighbors and to all officers of the Ft. Myers PD.

Dori Merkle

July 24, 2008

To the Family of Officer Andy Widman,
You are all in our thoughts and prayers during this very difficult time in your lives. May you find comfort in the friends and family who surround you with love and support. My heart goes out to you.

Benjamin Davis

July 24, 2008

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

Gus and Joy Markovics

July 24, 2008

Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Deepest sympathy.

angelita paniagua

July 24, 2008

My most deepest sympathy, prayers and heart go to each one of you dealing with the loss of one so beloved, so suddenly and so completely. Lean not on your own understanding, let your heart fill with the comfort of others, let your pain be lifted from you....peace, I pray for you, to come eventually. I am so sorry.....

Marshall Shedio

July 24, 2008

I have lived in lee county for 26 years. Never have I seen a community so brought together by a event. Andrew's dedication to his family, faith and profession is a tribute to the great person he was and a inspiration to us all. Andrew was a model for how we all should live are lives. I have been deeply impacted by this as well as many others I believe. Andrew most certainly did change the world. I have no doubt. God Bless Officer Widman and his family.

Michael Sischo

July 24, 2008

My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Such a terrible loss.

Scott

July 24, 2008

God Bless the Widman Family!

Donna Duggan

July 24, 2008

Mrs. Widman,
I would like to express my heartlfelt thanks to you for allowing us to partake in you the revered funeral of you dear departed husband. My family and I sat solomley, and we felt as if we had known Andy our whole lives. He will always be with you, and you will have the strength through him and through Jesus Christ to carry on, until it is time for you to meet again, face to face. May God Bless and watch over your family, and each and every law enforcement servent.

July 24, 2008

My prayers and respect go out to you and your family...my husband is a retired NYPD Detective and my son is now in the academy...there are no words to express my sympathy, but know that your husband was a unsung hero everyday he was a Police Officer......you and your children will always be in my prayers.....God Bless You........

Gary Gorski

July 24, 2008

My heartfelt condolences go out to the Widman family and relatives. God Bless you all.

satoko oda

July 24, 2008

My deepest sorrow for the loss of a great man of faith. Andy had been a true friend to me during the toughest time I had in college. My prayers are with Susanne, the children, and other family memebers. May they be embraced in the Love of the Almighty.

Trish

July 24, 2008

Susanne
You don't know me, but I live several streets over from you. I am so sorry for your loss. I have been watching the cars line up your street for several days and just feel for you. I literally cry each time I pass your house. Without even knowing you, I feel as if I do. My heart goes out to you and your kids. Hearing all about Andy he seems alot like my husband. Someday I would like to meet you just so you know I am here for you in your neighborhood. If you ever need anything. Just remember that God is in control and he has a plan for what is happening right now.

Micki LeCronier

July 24, 2008

Andrew HAS lived his dream. He HAS changed our part of the world. I have never seen a community draw so close on behalf of a hero's family. You expect news coverage, you expect contributions; you don't expect such an outpouring of love from all over the state. You don't expect so many donations from people who are struggling to keep their homes and buy food and gas. And you especially don't expect to see such an outpouring of thanks from the other officers on behalf of 413. Seeing them with their signs this morning put a lump in my throat that will not go away. God bless Andrew's spirit, his family and his extended family of officers that protects us all.

Linda Walker

July 24, 2008

My heart, prayers and love goes out to the Widman family and to the ones that serves and protect us. Andrew served his purpose in life. I pray that people will see the light and serve and live their life as an example of Andrew's. He's now a Guardian Angel to so many people. My son was shot in the face close range in 2004 at the age of 18yrs old. He survived but I could feel the family pain. I lost my baby brother in 1993 he was shot and killed at the age of 23 yrs. old. It hurts but we have to continue to allow God to strengthen us and trust in Him that He has a plan. I love you and God Bless!

James Griffin

July 24, 2008

My prayers goes out to the family of Officer Widman.

Sheri Gow

July 24, 2008

With sincere sympathy, may you find peace during this most difficult time.
My thoughts and prayers are with your family.

July 24, 2008

Widman family--

My condolences to you. This is horrible especially since your 5 month old will never know her great and heroic father. May he always be remembered throughout the city of Ft Myers and what he died for. Even though Andrew will not be with you in physical form, he will always be with you spiritually. I have read that once you pass on, time doesn't exist, so once Andrew was there, he was with his kids and his wife. God bless.

Zell Family

July 24, 2008

Our thoughts and prayers are with you. What a wonderful man he was. He will never be forgotten.

Diane Hansbro

July 24, 2008

Susanna and family,

Today as I sat alone in my living room watching the CELEBRATION of your husbands' life, it soon became apparent that Andys' earthly death was really about eternal life. Andy, as do all, had a purpose here on earth. I believe that a part of that purpose was served today. In death, Andy, and you, his family, presented such a phenomenal witness to the true and amazing existence of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Only He knows just how many souls were saved today, how many lives were changed, or how many knees were bent in receiving the most amazing gift ever given, Jesus! You touched my heart at so many levels as you honored your husband, shared your pain and gave witness to your faith.

The Lord giveth, and the Lord taketh away, blessed by the name of the Lord.

Ronald A.

July 23, 2008

I would just like to say that your family is in my prayers. May god bless him.

carrie, skip and katelyn pitt

July 23, 2008

our prayers and thought are with your family. you were loved by many and will be missed by all. may god bless you and your family and we will keep them in our prayers god bless you.

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