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Remembrance: Ronald Van Raalte
Historical researcher Ron Van Raalte, who assisted the Office of the
Historian as far back as the 1980s on historical line of duty death
research, passed away February 14, 2008 in Gallup, New Mexico. Mr. Van
Raalte, who always researched in his spare time or on travel,
contributed considerably to the historical program in forwarding
valuable copies, tips, and notes to confirm deputies for our nation’s
memorials and our Roll Call of Honor. After a close friend was killed in
the line of duty, he founded the Law Enforcement Memorial Association (LEMA).
Ron devoted many years to recognizing those officers–identifying the
names of approximately 30,000 officers, deputies, and other law
enforcement personnel.
Born and raised in the Chicago area, Mr. Van Raalte served in the U.S.
Army, stationed in Germany from 1958 to 1964. After a career in the
Arlington Heights, Illinois Police Department, he became the Midwest
Regional Director of Security for Avis Rent-A-Car. In addition, he
served in leadership positions in various western history programs,
including Westerners and Western Outlaws & Lawmen Association.
A devoted Chicago Cubs fan, Ron was reporting to media affiliates while
visiting their training camp the time of his passing. We will miss his
dedication and recognize his contributions to remember our fallen.
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