Dear Editor:
On behalf of Colorado Parks and Wildlife, we would like to thank all of the agencies, entities and community members who contributed so much to the funeral service and ceremony for wildlife officer Jon Wangnild, whom we tragically lost on June 27.
It is always amazing to see such strong support for any of the citizens of this community, and Jon’s service was no exception. Jon’s family and friends, coworkers and fellow officers could not have honored him properly without the help from so many.
We would specifically like to thank the Rio Blanco County Sheriff’s officers, the Meeker and Rangely police departments, Colorado State Patrol, Bureau of Land Management and other law enforcement agencies for the motorcade and recognition from their officers.
We would like to thank the Meeker Recreation District for their preparation of City Park, which was a wonderful location for the ceremony.
Thanks to the Rio Blanco County Fairgrounds and the Town of Meeker for the use of chairs and other items. A special thanks to the members of the United Methodist Church for assisting with all of the good food and desserts.
Jon was a wonderful person and took great pride in Meeker. He touched so many people in so many ways. The large turnout of local and out-of-state folks was a true representation of just how many people knew and respected Jon for all he did in his life.
Again, we would like to thank the community of Meeker and everyone for their continued support of Jon, his family and Colorado Parks and Wildlife.
Bill deVergie
Area Wildlife Manager
on behelf of Area 6
Director Rick Cables and all
Colorado Parks and Wildlife employees.