He was 'the sheriff's sheriff'Area law enforcement say good-bye to Gangwer

-Bob Cornwell, Executive Director of Buckeye State Sheriff's Association at funeral for Sandusky County Sheriff David Gangwer

--------

By DANIELLE ORR

Staff Writer

reporter@gazettepublishing.com

FREMONT -- Grace Lutheran Church in Fremont was filled to the brim Friday morning with those who loved and respected Sandusky County Sheriff David Gangwer.

Gangwer, who died unexpectedly Sunday, was serving his sixth term as Sandusky County Sheriff, which made him the county's longest serving sheriff.

Hundreds of law enforcement officials from all over Ohio were in attendance to pay their respects to the man who devoted over 43 years of service to Sandusky County, including the last 23 as sheriff.

"Sheriff Gangwer was an individual who was respected and highly regarded by all of his sheriff friends," said Cornwell. "He never imposed himself into the role of leadership, it was usually thrust upon him because of his demeanor."

Many remember Gangwer for his love and dedication to the Sandusky Sheriff's Office, and to his family. His job was his life.

"He never hesitated to remind me how proud he was of his office," said Ronny Shawber, Crawford County Sheriff. "He was also very proud of his family, his wife, his kids and his grandchildren.

"He and I were very good friends," said Shawber. "He was a proud sheriff, a proud Marine, and he will be missed by all who knew him. My buddy David."

"His dedication to his work reaches far and above his call of duty," said Bruce Hirt, chief deputy of the Sandusky County Sheriff's Office, and now acting sheriff. "He always treated the community with dignity and respect, no matter what their situation in life was."

"He took pride in his profession and in his office," said Tom Fligor, major jail administrator for Sandusky County. "He would put your issues, whether they were simple or complex in nature, in the front of the line. He was just that kind of boss, which is very rare in our line of work."

Shawber, like many others would describe Gangwer as a jokester.

"He would ask me when we were somewhere, 'Now who is that, and what office are they with?' Now, what he doesn't understand is that he's asking someone who's memory is just as bad as his. So, on occasion I would say 'Well, that's so and so and they're from so and so office,' having no idea. Dave would go strike up a conversation, and then would shortly return with that smirk on his face and say 'You got me, and you're going to pay,'" said Shawber.

"I always figured he would retire when he was 80 years old... he would walk out the front door in his uniform with his gun belt and badge hooked to a walker," said Hirt. "He was admired, well respected and will be greatly missed. We salute you. Our loss is Heaven's gain."

At the end of the service, Gangwer's casket was draped with the American flag and carried down the steps lined with Sandusky County Deputies saluting their fallen brother. West State Street was blocked in both directions by the area police departments that were there to show their respect.

The procession, which stretched for two-and-half miles, traveled through the Fremont. The procession passed under an American flag that was hung from two fire ladders. In front of the Sandusky County Sheriff's Office the procession paused briefly, then continued. Overhead, the LifeFlight helicopter led the way.

Gangwer was laid to rest at Oakwood Cemetery with a full sheriff's honor guard and flag detail. A horse-drawn caisson followed by a riderless horse carried Gangwer to his grave site.

The sound of bagpipes filled the air, as shots rang out, and the honorary flag was folded for Judy Gangwer, David's wife.

Before the service was complete a voice came over the loud speaker: "Sandusky County Unit 7200 to Sandusky County Unit 7201. David G. Gangwer has been called home for the last time."