Holly MatkinKalamazoo, MI – Kalamazoo Department of Public Safety (KDPS) Officer Christian Smith died on Oct. 8 after a battle against leukemia, according to his department.
The 32-year-old officer passed away while surrounded by his loved ones, the KDPS said in a press release on Oct. 11.
He received his diagnosis just seven months prior to his death, according to his obituary.
“It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of PSO Christian Smith, who was called home yesterday after a battle with leukemia,” the department said in another post. “Christian was a fierce warrior, devoted protector, and selfless public servant. More importantly, he was a committed and loving father, husband, son, brother, and friend, to all who had the chance to know and love him.”
Officer Smith served the KDPS for six years as a police officer, field training officer, firefighter, drug investigator, and K9 handler.
He also served in the U.S. Marine Corps prior to his career in law enforcement.
“He was a selfless public servant who was dedicated to providing exceptional services to the community,” the KDPS said. “His contributions to the community were far reaching and his legacy is not soon forgotten.”
Officer Smith leaves behind his wife, Samantha, as well as his children, Camden and Brooks, according to his obituary.
He is also survived by his parents, grandparents, siblings, nephews, niece, uncles, aunts, and friends.
“Please keep Christian’s loved ones in your thoughts and prayers as they navigate through this unimaginable time,” the KDPS said. “Until we see you again, rest easy brother, we’ll take it from here.”
Officer Smith was laid to rest on Friday.
THIS MORNING: A celebration of life for the Kalamazoo Dept. Of Public Safety Officer who died of cancer is happening at 11 a.m.
PSO Christian Smith was 32 years old and served with the department for around six years in a variety of roles. @FOX17 pic.twitter.com/nehZUdgHJe
— Lauren Kummer (@LaurenKummerTV) October 14, 2022
A flag flying at half-staff today at Kalamazoo Public Safety headquarters, after officer Christian Smith passed away from leukemia Saturday. @wwmtnews pic.twitter.com/xaGU5MsdMF
— Kirk Mason (@KirkMasonWWMT) October 9, 2022
Our thoughts are with the Kalamazoo Department of Public Safety. KDPS K9 Officer Christian Smith passed away today after a valiant battle with leukemia. Rest in Peace Christian. #ChristianStrong #NeverForget pic.twitter.com/4iJ4s6VyD7
— Kalamazoo County Consolidated Dispatch Authority (@KCCDA911) October 9, 2022
It is with heavy hearts that we mourn Public Safety Officer Christian Smith, who passed away surrounded by his loved ones following a battle with leukemia on Saturday. pic.twitter.com/ntCtdKwlAL
— City of Kalamazoo (@KalamazooCity) October 13, 2022
Our thoughts and prayers are with the families of Kalamazoo Department of Public Safety Officer Christian Smith, both blood and blue. Thank you for your service.
Rest easy, hero. We’ll hold the line from here.
Sandy Malone
