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Laughter Mixes With Tears At Funeral For State Trooper Donahue

By Dillon Thomas

ENGLEWOOD, Colo. (CBS4) - Family and friends of Colorado State Patrol Trooper Cody Donahue spent hours sharing the memories of their fallen partner, brother and friend on Friday.

Donahue was laid to rest after a funeral.

"Cody was one of the most selfless, helpful, loving, honorable and funny people I have ever known," said Mark Painter, Donahue's brother-in-law.

Cody Donahue
Trooper Cody Donahue (credit CBS)

Many who spoke both cried, and laughed, while sharing different stories. All those who spoke touched on Donahue's genuine attitude he carried in work, and at home.

"Cody really believed that when he pulled over a speeding car, or a drunk driver, he was protecting that person, and the rest of us," said Erin Painter, Donahue's sister.

"(Cody was) truly an inspirational man, who obviously touched the lives of so many," said Jeff Elwin, Donahue's longtime coworker. "It was an honor to call him a friend."

cody-donahue-funeral-6
(credit: CBS)

Those who knew Donahue said he loved his wife, and two daughters, more than anything.

"Cody still kept a picture of (his wife) in his wallet, just like he did while (they) were dating," his sister said.

Friends said Donahue's sense of humor, mixed with his love to talk, would greatly be missed. Friends added his love for protecting his community came right after his love for God, and his family.

"Cody never once took for granted that this could be his last day," one family member said. "He showed that to his wife, and girls, with huge hugs and kisses as if it were his last time."

While Donahue's family mourned their loss, his colleagues promised to not only continue his patrol, but to take care of his family as well.

Cody Donahue
Cody Donahue with his family (credit: CBS)

Donahue's call letters, "1-Charlie-3" were retired as well. His former supervisor, Jeff Goodwin, said no other trooper will ever have that identification in Donahue's honor.

The funeral, which some called a "celebration of life ceremony," ended with Donahue's last call.

"Trooper Cody Donahue, of Colorado State Patrol, is clear of his final tour of duty. Rest easy, sir, we have the watch from here," a dispatcher said.

Watch the complete funeral in the video clip below:

Dillon Thomas is a reporter at CBS4 and a Colorado native. He believes everyone has a story, and would love to share yours! You can find more of his stories by following him on Twitter, @DillonMThomas.

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