The Wisconsin Honor Guard Association regrets to announce the passing of Officer John Hetland of the Racine Police Department
Funeral Arrangements
Visitation and Service
Public visitation will be at Carthage College Seibert Chapel on Tuesday June 25th from 3:00 – 7:00 pm and Wednesday June 26th from 9:00-10:30 am.
Funeral services will be held at Carthage College – A.F. Seibert Chapel (2001 Alford Park Drive “Sheridan Road” Kenosha, WI 53140) on Wednesday, June 26, 2019 at 11:00 am. Interment, with full law enforcement honors, will follow in West Lawn Memorial Park.
Honor Guard Information
Please email the below listed OIC's to indicate your team participation or ability to act as an assistant OIC.
Wednesday Jun 26th public visitation for Racine Officer John Heltand will be from 0900 hours to 1100 hours at Carthage College 2001 Alford Park Drive, Kenosha, WI 53140. Responding Honor Guard units are encouraged to arrive early. Honor Guard units should plan to be on site no later than 0930 and will meet in the VPALS room of the Johnson center building. This building is just south of the chapel.
Obituary Information It is with profound sadness and grief that the Racine Police Department announces the line of duty death of Officer John D Hetland, a 24 year veteran of our department. On June 17, 2019, at 9:40 PM, off-duty Officer Hetland witnessed an armed robbery in progress. Officer Hetland took immediate action to stop this felony in progress and protect others. During his effort to intervene, Officer Hetland sustained a fatal gunshot wound.
Officer Hetland was a trusted and highly respected member of this department, serving in various positions over the years, including an assignment as a Field Training Officer, as well as a member of the Greater Racine FBI Gang Task Force.
John David Hetland, age 49; proud & loving father of Hunter (age 15) & Brooke (age 8); beloved son of Ronald & Rachelle Hetland; dear brother of Shelly (Jay) LeGath & Jason (Robin) Hetland; faithful friend, dedicated police officer & ambassador of Racine and hero to all; lost his life while saving others on Monday evening, June 17, 2019.
Donations
Donations on behalf of Officer Hetland and his family can be made online at: