(COLDWATER) - The City of Coldwater is honoring Public Safety Director Joseph Scheid following his unexpected death Monday evening.
In a media release, the City says the Coldwater community lost a dedicated leader, public servant, and friend with the passing of Scheid.
While details of his death have not been released by the City, social media posts say he died suddenly after collapsing at the Public Safety Building.
After graduating from Grand Valley State University with a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice, Law Enforcement Emphasis, and completing the University's Police Academy, Scheid joined the Coldwater Police Department on December 8, 1996, as a Patrol Officer. Throughout his career, he steadily rose through the ranks, serving as Corporal, Sergeant, Deputy Director of Public Safety, Acting Director of Public Safety, and ultimately Director of Public Safety, a position he held beginning September 23, 2019.
In preparation for leading Coldwater's combined Police and Fire Department, Scheid Joe completed Fire Service Certification I and II, further demonstrating his commitment to serving the entire community.
Under his leadership, the Coldwater Department of Public Safety achieved accreditation through the Michigan Law Enforcement Accreditation Program, administered by the Michigan Association of Chiefs of Police. Scheid was also instrumental in strengthening relationships between law enforcement and young people through the establishment of School Resource Officer positions.
Beyond the badge, Scheid believed that investing in the next generation was one of the greatest responsibilities of public service. Whether through his involvement in youth sports, personally congratulating Coldwater High School graduates with handwritten cards, or establishing the Coldwater Police and Fire Scholarship Fund to support future public safety professionals, he consistently demonstrated a genuine commitment to the community.
Details regarding memorial services and additional opportunities to honor Director Scheid will be shared as arrangements are finalized. The community is asked to keep his family, friends, and all members of the Coldwater Department of Public Safety in their thoughts during this time.