Memorial grows for MSP trooper killed in action

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The Michigan State Police is an agency in mourning. Family, friends, and strangers from across the state are gathering to mourn State Trooper Chad Wolf, who was killed last week.

Wolf was hit by a car on I-75 early Friday morning as rode his MSP motorcycle into work. Police say the 72-year-old driver from Waterford was hauling a trailer and Wolf was trapped under it and dragged at least three miles on I-75. Sources said other drivers noticed sparks and another even said a man could be seen under the trailer and called 911.

Mourning bands are over ever badge on every uniform going into and coming out of Sharp Funeral home in Fenton on Monday. The community, both law enforcement and everyday citizens, are honoring the 38-year-old father of four.

Flowers, hugs, and tears filled the funeral home just three days after police say Wolf was hit and thrown from his motorcycle on Dixie Highway. Wolf was dragged several miles and rushed to a nearby hospital. He died at the hospital later that day. Michigan State Police Lt. David Kaiser said it was just like any other day.

"Here's a man who left for work, said goodbye to his wife and kids. went out the door like a normal day to go to work, never to return back home."

On Saturday, the husband and father of four was honored with a motorcycle memorial ride. Hundreds prayed and passed that rest area. Wolf was an avid rider and known to even lead patriot rides.

"He's going to be a loss to us not only as a trooper as a loss for public service in the state of Michigan, but to the guys who ride motorcycles." Lt. Mike Shaw with MSP said.

Flags were lowered as that area turned into a vigil Sunday with candles and crayon drawings from his young sons. In those drawings, they call their daddy their "favorite".

On Monday, a continuous line of police cruisers and mourners as memories of Wolf fill each moment. Wolf was recently spotted at the Woodward Dream Cruise to help out Bloomfield Police with children who need it most.

"They all came down to help us with some handicapped kids that were going out on Woodward and he was great with them," said Bloomfield Police officer Danny Phillips.

As they prepare to say goodbye, police are also working to complete their investigation. With 150 pieces of evidence, they say charges against that driver from Waterford could come.

"We're thinking maybe a couple more weeks, then we'll get it over tot he prosecutor to take a look at

But those mourning their fellow trooper, friend, and father think only of Wolf and his family. The trooper, known for his deep faith in God, who left this world too soon.

"You take a deep breath and you realize you can do everything you want in this world to stay safe but when your number's up, it's up. The big guy has a plan," Kaiser said.

For those interested in helping the family if Trooper Wolf, contributions can be made to the Chad H. Wolf Memorial Fund, C/O Sharp Funeral Home, 1000 Silver Lake Rd., P.O. Box 1161, Fenton, MI 48430. You can also make a donation online via the family's GoFundMe account.

Visitation: Sharp Funeral Home Fenton Chapel, 1000 Silver Lake Road, Fenton

Funeral: Tuesday at Fenton High School Gymnasium, 3200 W. Shiawassee Avenue, Fenton