​Federal Way, WA – Federal Way Police Department (FWPD) Officer Frank Martin died in his sleep on Monday, after a battle with colon cancer, his family said.

Officer Martin, 44, a 10-year veteran of the force, was diagnosed with Stage IV colon cancer in November, 2017, the department said in a Facebook post.

“Officer Martin was a remarkable man. He was a humble man and always made sure people felt cared for – both in the community and within our police family,” the department’s post said. “While our hearts are heavy that our time together was cut short so prematurely, we are also grateful for the time we shared with him. We will honor and always remember Frank for his contributions to the Federal Way Police Department.

Officer Martin, a married father of two, worked as a corrections officer at the King County Jail prior to being hired by FWPD, according to a Go Fund Me page dedicated to his medical expenses.

He spent the last four years of his career assigned to the traffic division as a motor officer, until he sustained an injury during a police motorcycle training in July of 2017, the page read.

Despite treatment for the injury, a pain in his hip persisted, ultimately leading to the discovery of the officer’s cancer.

“Frank fought bravely for as long as he could,” the page read. “Now, his cancer is behind him and his pain is gone. His death has left us devastated.”

Officer Martin leaves behind his wife, Jennifer, his 7-year-old daughter, Arianna, and his 6-year-old son, Elijah.

“I’m so grateful to everyone for the outpouring of love and support,” Jennifer said in a Facebook post on Tuesday. “Frank was one of a kind he will be deeply missed. The kids and I are holding on to our faith during this difficult time knowing one day we will be reunited with him again in heaven.”

Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of Federal Way Officer Frank Martin, both blood and blue. Godspeed, we will take the watch from here.

Thank you for your service.