Family members of Joel Wahlenmaier reflected on his life Friday night. The Deputy Detective was 49-year-old. He was a 12-year veteran of the force. He leaves behind a wife, son and daughter.The rain made for an appropriate backdrop to the somber day on Friday. Many continue to mourn the loss of the fallen officer. A blue ribbon was just one of many signs that show people do care. Wahlenmaier made the ultimate sacrifice for the town and the people he loved on Thursday when he was gunned down in Minkler while serving a search warrant.
Friends of the fallen officer have now set up a memorial fund in his name. This fund was established to help his son and daughter who are both in their 20s. Wahlenmaier’s sister-in-law said law enforcement families sacrifice as well.
Wahlenmaier was born and raised in Fresno. A Fresno High graduate, he dedicated 12 years of his life to protect his community. Eric Schmidt, with the Fresno County Deputies Association, said Wahlenmaier would never ask for anything from the community which is why the department is asking for him.
The Fresno County Sheriffs Association is accepting for Wahlenmaier’s memorial fund. Anyone can send contributions to:Fresno County Sheriffs Association, 1360 Van Ness Ave., Fresno, CA 93721
