Kevin Patrick McGaffigan

We are very sorry to hear about Kevin’s passing. With sincere sympathy, Kathy, Mike and Steve Casterline God Bless the Boys (and Gals) in Blue

Thank you, sir, for your leadership and showing all of us the way throughout the last tough recruit school, the Mighty 116th! A couple quick stories about you back then. I have repeated these stories throughout my career: The day before I was to be the Class Commander for the 116th TRS, I received a tap on the shoulder during classroom instruction. You were pulling me out of class, and I thought I was done. You led me to the auditorium and while standing on a step below me, you were still taller than me. I feared your next words. I was relieved to find out you were just letting me know that the entire staff would be away the following day, but the expectation was that we would stay locked on as there would be several guests in the building. You told me it was up to me if I wanted to tell any of my classmates or not. I did not tell anyone, and we received compliments on how well we did the following day. You told us a story one evening in the auditorium about you and (I believe) your sons waiting in a long line at an unnamed store. The clerk was clearly upset and having a bad day as many people were complaining about the long line, asking for price checks, and her not being as fast as everyone would like her to be. I remember you telling us that you told your boys to look at her and realize that everyone has stuff going on and to be patient with all you come in contact with because you just never know what they are dealing with in their lives. You said when it was your turn, you asked the clerk how she was doing. She melted and thanked you and it was clear she knew you cared as you were probably the only person to ask her how she was doing all day. Throughout my 28-year career, I have followed you. Thank you so much for your example to all of us. Keep fighting and I will continue to pray for you.

To Trina, Dennis and all of Kevin’s family… There is evil in this world true angry hateful evil. But there is also true goodness and virtue. Everyone in LE and far too many who are not know the struggle. The good Lord provides the tools necessary to combat that evil. Kevin has been and will always be one of the most powerful forces toward that good and virtuous end! He equipped many with his guidance, understanding and love. Used daily, and in many unseen and unrecognized ways to combat that evil and save lives. Having a strong foundation in God and Family allowed Kevin to teach, through his actions and word. Thank you for facilitating and supporting Kevin in that role for so many. The sacrifice made by a LE family is no small thing. Many times the family is asked to go without while the Trooper helps others. Your support and sacrifice throughout Kevin’s life enabled so many to stay in the fight and do God’s work. For that WE thank you! I had the opportunity to make peace with Kevin about a year ago. I take great comfort in knowing there will be the opportunity to PT along side him again in the afterlife. Kevin, we got this from here Brother. Go in peace. Thank you!

Kevin, I have so many memories of you while working at MSP. We shared a great deal of fun times, as well as a number of stressful ones in the agency. Our Sands Summit’s were memorable for sure. Your leadership was always appreciated as you brought experience and passion to our problem solving. You also brought humor and great story telling. When we ended up at the same details I always wanted to walk or stand next to, because no one would mess with me. 😊 I am saying prayers for you and your incredible family. Fight the good fight my friend. Monica Yesh

Cap, my story with you is small comparatively, but you had a huge impact on me nonetheless. I met you first when you were a sergeant and saw you grow through the ranks. I think we had the most communication back when I was an admin in the bureau office. You always have the most amazing attitude. I always took you as a “keep calm and carry on” kind of guy, always thoughtful about your words and actions and so funny! You always picked out something to praise about, always asked about and remembered my family, and always made me feel like an important member of the team, even as a civilian. I have so much respect for you at work, but also as a family man, having so many wonderful things to say about your family and home life. Thank you for being you and setting that example for so many. My thoughts are with you.

Cap, Kevin, Big Kevin, Denny's Brother or corn stalk... I was great over the years for you to travel to South Dakota to pheasant hunt. Many memories have been made, but the one that sticks out to me is us making steaks over the camp fire wood for the group. We might have taste tested the products along with (you drank you man beer and me well ????) Kevin we have many wonderful talks on our blessings of family and friends. For your family, thank you for sharing Kevin with us. Love you Man...

I’m glad our paths crossed more than 30 years ago in the mighty 112th. Thank you for the impact you had on my career and my life—it is something I will always be grateful for. You always treated me like family—it was never a handshake, always a hug. You are a true example of what the Michigan State Police should be. You always put the Troopers first and led with integrity, humility, and compassion. It has been an honor to know you and call you my friend and brother. I will be praying for you and your family.

Sir It was a privilege working for you in the 1st District. I’ve learned valuable wisdom and advice from you via the Friday night speaker in Recruit School, training conferences, the Captain’s interview and even when you were simply passing through Adrian, taking time to have breakfast with us Troopers at Maria’s Sunnyside Café. The most classic line was the (3) most common reasons of how Troopers can get themselves in trouble, as a previous union representative it still holds true, but it was also funny on how it was said. Thank you for your support over the years and the wisdom you shared. God bless you!

Kevin; So very sorry to hear about your difficulties. I do remember you at the Battle Creek post when you first started out. You set the pace for all of your fellow troops. Having you at the post was a blessing. One final thought: recognize that you gave your utmost effort each and every day, and it a valiant endeavor. You nearly matched my appearance in uniform!

Kevin, I am sorry to hear you are sick . I imagine everyone is jumping through hoops to make you comfortable. In the olden days, I was a member of the 112th. You were on temp staff. It was always a pleasure running into you here & there after graduation. Polite, kind, professional, competent & fair minded ole McGaffigan. I want you and your family to understand how much the women in uniform, like myself, respect you. You are just a really good man. It's not a small matter in the law enforcement profession. I always appreciated the example you set for the rest of us. Thank you & bless you.