06-18-2002

A Hero Was Laid to Rest - Officer Nielsen's Funeral

On June 18th, 2002 Funeral Services were held for Officer Robert Nielsen who was killed tragically in the line of duty on June 12, 2002 at 1:51 p.m.

Nearly 2500 people attended Services at the Chandler Christian Church on Alma School Road in Chandler. 10 coach style busses were used to transport employees from the Chandler Police Department to the Church and then onto the interment site.

A bagpipe played solemnly as pall bearers and color guard escorted the American flag draped coffin of Officer Nielsen into the church. The service began with an opening prayer by Pastor Mark Ellington. Next, many of Officer Nielsen's friends and colleagues spoke in his memory including Alison Schell, Robert Lowe, Rob's Sergeant, then Chief Harris paid tribute to the fallen Officer. Arizona's Governor Hull presented Robert's widow, Anne Marie, with the State Flag that was flying over the capitol the day of Robert's death. The church ensemble performed "Remember Me".

Lt. Steve Geselle, Scottsdale PD, who was Robert's class sargaent at the Academy, gave the second eulogy and Jon Duke, Robert's Karate Instructor told of Robert's positive attitude and his love for Anne Marie, his wife, and his excitement about his job as a police officer. A memorial video, put together by Chandler PD's video team was played and showed hundred's of pictures of Robert set to music by Creed and 3 Doors Down. The church ensemble performed "Friends". Former Chandler PD Pastor, Bruce Coe, presented a spiritual message, then Officer Darrin Vigesaa read "The Policeman's Prayer". Closing prayers were given by Bruce Coe.

A procession over 3 miles long accompanied Officer Nielsen to the Valley of the Sun Memorial Park. Thousands of citizens and city employees lined the route in honor of the fallen Officer. At the Interment services, along with words of comfort from Pastor Coe, there was a presentation of honor guard, a riderless horse, 21 gun salute, and a missing man formation performed by law enforcement helicopters from around the state. Chief Bobby Joe Harris presented Anne Marie Nielsen with the American flag that was draped over Robert's coffin. Last Call for Robert Nielsen was broadcast over police radio. The pall bearers then escorted Robert to his final resting place where a small service was performed for close friends and family. Officer Robert Nielsen was then buried between two veteran Arizona officers who had also died in the line of duty, Officer Skip Fink of the Arizona DPS and Officer Jim Snedigar of the Chandler Police Department.

Friends and family returned to the church for a reception.