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Final salute: Milwaukee Police Officer Peter Jerving laid to rest

By: Jenna Wells Facebook | Twitter
Posted: Feb 13, 2023 9:23 AM CDT | Updated: Feb 13, 2023 10:47 PM CDT
Final salute: Milwaukee Police Officer Peter Jerving laid to rest
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MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- Family, friends, and dozens of fellow officers gathered at Elmbrook Church in Brookfield for the funeral of Milwaukee Police Officer Peter Jerving.

Those at Jerving's funeral described him as playful, funny, always smiling, and dedicated to his line of duty.

"Peter Jerving. That's a name that we will honor and a name that we will revere in Milwaukee, not just for today, but forever," said City of Milwaukee Mayor Cavalier Johnson.

The funeral for 37-year-old Jerving began with special remarks from police and community leaders.

Mayor Johnson emphasized officer Jerving's commitment to the city.

"He stepped up for all of us, working to improve our safety, and he did that without hesitation and under some of the most difficult of circumstances," Johnson said.

Milwaukee Police Chief Jeffrey Norman reminisced on a Lifesaving Award given to Jerving last summer, which was a testament to his service.

"I cannot think of a greater example of courage, honor, and self-sacrifice than officer Peter E.C. Jerving," Chief Norman said.

MPD District 4 Captain Brad Schlei asked mourners to stand and hug each other, in the name Jerving.

"In tragedy and times like this, we're reminded of what we stand for, and how we stand together," Schlei said.

Jerving's life was honored through scripture readings, songs of prayer, and remembrances from family and friends.

"For your bravery, for your everlasting love, for your legacy, and for all of those who now stand watch on Earth in your place, I salute you," said Jerving's brother, Drew.

Drew Jerving later spoke of a brotherhood that extends beyond the bloodline, saying, "Brotherhood is an unshakeable, immovable, and impenetrable fortress of strength and love."

Jerving's mother, Patty, prayed for his fellow officers. "Please bless all the officers of my District 4 of Milwaukee, and every member of their families. Please help them to deal with their grief and trauma."

She also pledged forgiveness for the shooter, despite the tragedy, saying, "I also ask for you to please bless the family of that young man, and especially the heart of his mother. She also lost a son on Feb. 7."

Doug Jerving, Peter Jerving's father, urged people to turn that grief into action and purpose. He told the congregation, "Grieve, yes, for however long you need to. But then when your grieving is over, get up. Wash your face. Put on the uniform of your chosen profession and get back out there and do the work of the kingdom."

Monday's memorial served as a final salute for an officer who put his life on the line.

"Our brother paid the ultimate sacrifice doing what he loved to do. He is our hero," Schlei said.

Pastor Alexis Twito led most of the service. She is Officer Jerving's sister-in-law. She said he truly loved Milwaukee.

While he could have served elsewhere, Twito said he always wanted to work on Milwaukee's north side, where he grew up.

PHOTO GALLERY

Outside the church, people lined the streets to pay their respects. 

Following the funeral, a powerful procession for Officer Jerving took place from the church to Wisconsin Memorial Park. 

Listen to Officer Peter Jerving's final roll call from the Milwaukee Police Department:

To view the entire funeral for Officer Jerving, CLICK HERE. 

Contributions to this story also made by: Adam Rife
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