Photos added.
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Today, the Multnomah County Sheriff's Office is mourning the loss of an inspirational, iconic member of the agency. Chaplain Ed Stelle of Lake Oswego, Oregon, passed away this morning at the age of 95, surrounded by members of his law enforcement family.
Sheriff Michael Reese commented, "Chaplain Stelle was a supporter and friend to everyone in law enforcement. He was a positive presence in the lives of countless officers and was an incredible spiritual leader in our profession."
Chaplain Stelle was a WWII Naval veteran who began his work in ministry to police officers and their families in 1953, with the Portland Police Bureau. Following his tenure with Portland Police, Chaplain Stelle began working with the Multnomah County Sheriff's Office, where he has played an active role as the agency chaplain until his passing.
Chaplain Stelle was a pioneer in the field of law enforcement chaplaincy and peer support programs. His work influenced agencies across the country, as he shared his wealth of experience and knowledge with anyone interested supporting public safety professionals.
"Ed Stelle was one of our most valuable assets." Noted Retired Sheriff Bob Skipper, "I have known him for 48 years, and he was always there, for everyone."
A sense of vocation implored Chaplain Stelle to create lifelong relationships with those he served, and his indelible impact in local law enforcement will last generations to come. Arrangements for a memorial service will be released when they are available.
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Today, the Multnomah County Sheriff's Office is mourning the loss of an inspirational, iconic member of the agency. Chaplain Ed Stelle of Lake Oswego, Oregon, passed away this morning at the age of 95, surrounded by members of his law enforcement family.
Sheriff Michael Reese commented, "Chaplain Stelle was a supporter and friend to everyone in law enforcement. He was a positive presence in the lives of countless officers and was an incredible spiritual leader in our profession."
Chaplain Stelle was a WWII Naval veteran who began his work in ministry to police officers and their families in 1953, with the Portland Police Bureau. Following his tenure with Portland Police, Chaplain Stelle began working with the Multnomah County Sheriff's Office, where he has played an active role as the agency chaplain until his passing.
Chaplain Stelle was a pioneer in the field of law enforcement chaplaincy and peer support programs. His work influenced agencies across the country, as he shared his wealth of experience and knowledge with anyone interested supporting public safety professionals.
"Ed Stelle was one of our most valuable assets." Noted Retired Sheriff Bob Skipper, "I have known him for 48 years, and he was always there, for everyone."
A sense of vocation implored Chaplain Stelle to create lifelong relationships with those he served, and his indelible impact in local law enforcement will last generations to come. Arrangements for a memorial service will be released when they are available.