Francis E. Wirt
Agency: Harrisonville Police Department, MO
Patrolman Wirt worked in the Harrisonville Police Department for about a month after returning from serving his country in the US Marine Corps.
Patrolman Francis Wirt and Patrolman Donald Marler were shot and killed when they were ambushed by a suspect while walking their beat. The suspect approached them and opened fire with a M-1 rifle. Both officers fell to the ground wounded.
As they pleaded for their lives, the suspect shot and killed them both. The suspect then shot and killed three citizens and wounded several others before committing suicide.
He was survived by his parents and four brothers.
Reflections:
I met Frank when we were both in the military in California. We were both military brats from Missouri and became dear friends. I respected and admired his integrity, loyalty and compassion for family, friends, the military and subsequently the HPD. Frank lived his short life with honor,courage and humility. I think often of all the things he never had the chance to be: a loving husband, father, grandfather, uncle. He would have been wonderful in all of those roles! Such a tragedy. May you rest peacefully with God in your eternal sleep, Frank, and know that you are loved. Thank you for your military and law enforcement service. Semper Fi!
Marie Retherford
Friend/USNavy (Retired)
Gone almost 45 years now but ever present in fond memories of my "favourite" brother. "Frankie" will never be forgotten by family nor those who knew him well. He was an inspiration to each of us when we were growing up and, as I said at his memorial in 2012, he was the best of us (brothers).
Dan Wirt
Brother
My thoughts are often with my big brother Frankie. As I reflect on that weekend three years ago in Harrisonville, where Frank and Don were remembered and honored, my heart and prayers go out to the friends and families of the fallen ones who have recently died through senseless acts of misguided revenge. Their courage and service to our communities will never be forgotten.
Dan Wirt
Brother
As the 40th anniversary approaches, I reflect on fond thoughts of my brother Frankie. We lost one very kind and loving individual that day. I thank those who have taken the time to enter a kind word here. My gratitude goes out to all who serve our communities and our country by placing themselves in harm's way on our behalf.
Dan (Danny) Wirt
Younger Brother
My brother Dan and I attended the 40th anniversary memorial service for our brother Frank, his partner Don Marler and Orville Allen this past weekend. It was a wonderful outpouring of love and appreciation by the whole town for the sacrifice these men made. Our thanks especially to Chief John Hofer and the HPD. Don Frank and Orville are indeed fallen, but will never be forgotten. We love you Frank. Rest in peace.
Chris Wirt
Brother
I never knew my Uncle Frank, I was born 18 months after his death but my Father, Mike told me so many stories. I regret never meeting you and I honor your memory. You will live on in the stories. I speak for my whole family when I say we miss you. Rest in peace.
Alena Etheridge
Niece
Like my cousin Alena I never met my namesake uncle, but grew up hearing stories about him. I would like to thank this website for honoring the men and women who like my uncle made the ultimate sacrifice.
Francis (Frank) Wirt
Nephew
My first cousin "Frankie" was the son of my uncle ,Frank Eugene Wirt. I am Glenda Louise Wirt Bell, daughter of Louis "Bud" Wirt. I was 9 years older than Frankie & can barely remember him as we were just little kids then.We never saw each other as adults as our paths went separate ways. It is an honor to be related to him. May you rest in peace Frankie ,as the family you left behind loved you dearly. On April 8,2009 I placed more flowers at your grave."Thank you" to the individual who placed the other flowers at your stone.Most thoughtful. Frankie,you are not forgotten.
Glenda Wirt Bell
First Cousin
I was born and raised in Harrisonville. I did not know Officers Marler and Wirt personally. But their deaths became the defining moment in my teenage years. Because of this I have purchased memorial bricks in their honor that will be placed at Vietnam Veterans Memorial State Park, Angel Fire, New Mexico. The ceremony will take place on Saturday, Sept. 2, 2017. I am told these bricks will probably be placed later in the afternoon. It has now been more than 45 years since these brave men were brutally slain. But I want to make sure their memory endures.
Concerned Citizen
I was Mike Wirt's room mate in California. I met Frank just one night when he visited. I was impressed with his kindness, his humor and his personality. I would say, even now, such a tragedy.
A friend of Mike Wirt’s
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