In Memory of Master Trooper Daniel A. Stainbrook

On Monday, November 15, 2021, Wisconsin residents learned that a Wisconsin State Trooper died due to the ongoing COVID19 pandemic. Master Trooper Daniel Stainbrook, badge number 2410, died due to complications of contracting the coronavirus while on duty. Master Trooper Stainbrook was 42 years old.

Master Trooper Daniel Stainbrook served as a trooper with the Wisconsin State Patrol for more than 20 years. His most recent assignment was at the Wausau Post in the North Center Region of the state.

COVID19 and Law Enforcement

More than 500 officers have died due to the COVID19 pandemic. Despite many deaths, officers are among the group of individuals who are the most resistant to getting vaccinated. Police unions have backed legal proceedings in court to prevent departments from mandating the vaccine. Getting the vaccine is extremely important for officers. It is essential for their families. There may have been 500 plus officers lost to the virus, but there have been thousands of children left without a parent who was a law enforcement officer.

Wisconsin State Patrol, Wisconsin

Stainbrook served with the Wisconsin State Patrol. As in most states, the state police are considered the elite police force for the state. In Wisconsin, the WSP is the highway patrol and a part of the Wisconsin Department of Transportation.

State troopers enforce traffic and criminal laws, provide oversight to motor carrier safety and operate weight facilities. Officers with the department also inspect and regulate all motor carriers, school buses, and ambulances that operate in the state. State police also provide backup assistance to local law enforcement agencies.

States like Wisconsin depend on their highway patrol for safety on the roadways and to help residents during civil disturbances and natural or artificial disasters.

Remembrances

Master Trooper Stainbrook leaves behind his wife and two children. His children will join the hundreds of law enforcement families who have lost a parent or primary caregiver to the virus. Stainbrook was provided honor services by the Wisconsin State Patrol Honor Guard.

The Wisconsin Department of Transportation announced the loss of Master Trooper Stainbrook online. “With heavy hearts, we announce the loss of our colleague Master Trooper Dan Stainbrook. Master Trooper Stainbrook, 42, passed away Monday due to complications from COVID-19. We are deeply saddened to lose a member of our team, and we ask you all to keep his family in your thoughts during this difficult time. Master Trooper Stainbrook was a 20-year veteran of the Wisconsin State Patrol assigned to the North Central Region, working primarily in Waushara County. Master Trooper Stainbrook was committed to public safety, serving as an instructor for sworn personnel across the division. He was a dedicated officer and will be missed by many.”

Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers shared his thoughts on the loss of Trooper Stainbrook. “The state of Wisconsin lost a true public servant with the passing of Dan Stainbrook. With two decades of dedicated service to his community and the state of Wisconsin, his loss is felt deeply by all those who knew and worked with him. Dan was a part of our team, and Kathy and I extend our deepest condolences to Dan’s family and loved ones as well as his colleagues in the Wisconsin State Patrol and Department of Transportation during this incredibly challenging time.”

The Wisconsin Troopers Association set up a GoFundMe account for the Stainbrook family and posted it on their Twitter page. “Dan lost his battle with COVID late yesterday morning. There are no words for the void we all feel. His wife and daughters need our thoughts, prayers, and support now more than ever. Rest In Peace, Brother. Car 445, we will never forget.”