KANSAS CITY, Mo. -- When friends took to the podium Thursday to honor Wyandotte County Sheriff’s Deputy Patrick Rohrer, they reminded those in attendance that the Wookiee always wins.
Star Wars and comics references dominated the pair’s tribute to their friend in an emotional End of Watch Ceremony for Rohrer and fellow deputy Theresa King. The pair were killed last Friday while transporting a prisoner to a court hearing.
Hundreds of law enforcement from across the area took to Children’s Mercy Park to pay their respects, which included members of the Merriam Police Department.
Rohrer had served as an officer in the city during several months in 2012. Since then, Rohrer, 35, had served as a deputy in the Wyandotte County Sheriff’s office.
Rorher graduated from Shawnee Mission Northwest high School and was a Kansas State University graduate. Friends told 41 Action News reporter Belinda Post Rohrer was active in musicals and theater in high school.
While he was a real-life hero to many, he also dressed up as a superhero with children Connor and Emma and wife Sarah.
The 35-year-old was drawn into art sketches as Superman by artist Darryl Woods, who said he wanted someone to give it to the Rohrer's family.
"A police officer is out here defending me and everybody putting his life on the line every day. He's a superhero to me," said Woods. "Like what happened to he and his partner, you never know."
William Binderup, a friend of the family, said Emma would go on the field at Children's Mercy Park holding the hand of Supergirl, for some extra support.
"Emma asked," said Binderup. "She's going to be with her the whole time."
He said the Rohrer's taught their children what it means to serve, even at an early age. Their grandparents volunteer as Mr. and Mrs. Claus around Christmas.
Emma donated her own money to help kids at Children's Mercy Hospital get Christmas presents.
"She had brought me all of her piggy bank savings — all her pennies and crumpled dollars. She wanted to donate to the toy drive. That’s Patrick's daughter," said Binderup.
Rohrer was also active in the local Boy Scouts.
During Thursday’s service, Rob Richardson of the Boy Scouts of America Troops 401, 247 and 522, spoke of Rohrer’s devotion.
