Family and friends of David Romrell gathered to honor the late South Salt Lake Police Officer on Wednesday, remembering him as a determined and genuine public servant.
The 31-year-old was struck by a car fleeing a burglary on Nov. 24. He later died in emergency surgery at Intermountain Medical Center.
The service was held at the Maverik Center, with songs and stories devoted to Romrell. Officers from across Utah filled the audience alongside Honor Guards from California, Idaho, and Nevada. Romrell’s family, including his wife, Elizabeth, and four-month old son, Jackson, sat below the stage wearing blue.
Police Chief Jack Carruth said he knew Romrell as a warrior and devoted servant to the community.
“When an officer’s heart is larger than their courage, there shall be no better guardian worthy of wearing a badge,” said Carruth.
Romrell joined the South Salt Lake Police Department in January 2018. Before that, he was a decorated Marine Corps sergeant and a Private Investigator.
When Scott Hall, a retired Marine Corps master sergeant, first met Romrell as a junior Marine, he was struck by his drive and eagerness to please.
“No matter how much negativity came down, it didn’t matter. He was ready to do it,” said Hall.
Many speakers, including Kevin Wyatt, owner of Private Investigators Association of Utah and a former police officer, told multiple stories about Romrell’s sense of humor.
“David was a jokester with everyone he called family,” he said. “David was lighthearted with everyone, and David was genuine with everyone. These stories go on and on and on.”
Also in attendance were Gov. Gary Herbert and South Salt Lake Mayor Cherie Woods. Through tears, Woods spoke to the legacy of honor that Romrell will leave behind. She asked all officers and armed forces to stand. Then she addressed Romrell’s wife.
“Elizabeth, look around you,” she said. “We are your family.”
The services were followed by a procession to Larkin Mortuary in Sandy, where Romrell’s body will remain.
