Deputy Shad Nicks
Douglas County, NE Sheriff's Dept.
End of Watch: Sunday, May 13, 2007
Age: 36
Cause of Death: Vehicle Accident
Nicks was a husband and father of three young children, one just three weeks old.
Deputy Russell Swanson says, "I was one of his training officers, he was a great guy, he's going to be missed."
Officers in many uniforms honor the fallen deputy with serial number 359.
"It's been an emotional rollercoaster these past few days, this is a chance for them to channel their energies into something great," says Sheriff Tim Dunning.
They all provide comfort to a grieving family in its deepest time of need.
“It's unbelievable and that's what helps us go on. It's just unreal. Thank god for all of your people," says Tony Buyas, Deputy Nicks’ father.
Deputy Nicks' father wants everyone to know his son wouldn't hold a grudge even against the woman accused of the crash that claimed his life.
"My son was the type of person that whatever happens to the other lady he would have said everything is fine just the way he was," says Buyas.
Shad Nicks served the community for nearly seven years as a Douglas County deputy.
His colleagues say this is just a start in their plan to look out after his wife and children.
Relatives say they couldn’t be more appreciative.
"I think there's going to be a lot of support for family and we’re grateful for everyone who wants to come out and support Becky and the kids," says Andrea Nicks, Deputy Nicks’ sister-in-law