Former coworkers of fallen MPD officer Peter Jerving make donation in his honor

 

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- Fallen Milwaukee police officer Peter Jerving would've turned 38 this Thanksgiving weekend. Coworkers from his previous employer, Western States Envelope, marked the day with a gift that benefits his most recent coworkers in District 4. 

It's a check for $4,200 and it's going to help Milwaukee police officers travel to Washington D.C. to see the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial during Police Week 2024. That's when the wall will add the name "Officer Peter Jerving."

Barb Kurcz and Marylynn Ellis were self-proclaimed "work moms" to Peter Jerving at the job he held prior to becoming a police officer.

"I think it's harder because it's so unexpected," said Kurcz.

Thirteen years together at Western States Envelope in Butler -- the two even attended Jerving's police academy graduation and popped into District 4 from time to time with treats. 

"And you knew it was a dangerous job, but you never really knew it would be the last time you would see him," said Kurcz. 

"I used to text him every morning when I heard of something happening, and I actually texted him that morning and said, 'I know it wasn't your district, but please check in,' and he never did," said Ellis.

Officer Jerving, with four years on the job, lost his life in a gun battle with a robbery suspect Feb. 7. 

"It's still a struggle every day, and we can only do it with the help of the community, the help of each other, and staying strong as a family here at District 4," said Milwaukee Police Captain Brad Schlei.

This roll call, District 4 officers on second shift are getting that community support. 

"We are happy to present this check for $4,200 in honor of our friend and former coworker, Peter Jerving," said Western States Envelope employees.

"It really is special. It really touches the heart," said Cpt. Schlei.

As the money's being added to the Milwaukee Police Association Fallen Heroes Fund, it's an emotional day in this room.

"I personally miss him dearly. He touched many people's lives," said Kurcz.

"It's been emotional. I started crying when Barb started crying. And I get to the point where I think, ok, I'm cried out, but I’m shocked that the tears still come," said Patty Jerving, Peter's mom.

Western State's allowed employees to hold a bake sale and raffle this month, and it had the biggest turnout, no doubt, because it was for a much-loved guy.

"Yeah, he touched a lot of lives, yes, he did. He was a good guy," said Ellis and Kurcz.

Milwaukee police would like to have as much support as possible in Washington D.C. for the Jerving family as possible when Peter's name is engraved on the memorial wall. 

If you'd like to donate, click here and give to the campaign called Police Week 2024.