Hundreds Honor Life of Willoughby Officer

EASTLAKE, Ohio — Hundreds gathered Thursday morning to honor the life of Officer Jason Gresko, who died while on his way to help a fellow officer.

The 32-year-old part-time Willoughby police officer was killed Friday night when his cruiser collided with a pickup truck, then spun into a tree along Harmony Lane in Willoughby.

Friends, loved ones and law enforcement officers paid their respects at the Monreal Funeral Home in Eastlake.

“Police work is very dangerous. Sometimes getting to where the help is needed is the hardest thing. It’s sometimes more dangerous than what is happening when we get to the scene,” said Chief Duane Whitely, with the Elyria Police Department.

The driver of the pickup truck was not injured, or cited in the accident.

Gresko leaves behind a wife and a 2-year-old daughter.

“He was great guy.  A great family man.  He always said he couldn’t wait to get home to his two favorite women, his wife and his daughter. It’s sad,” said Adam Rosciszewski, of Willowick.

“It just makes you want to be with your family, with the ones you love.  Because you never know. You got to live each day with your family. Because that’s what it’s all about,” cried Lovena Dorsey, of Willoughby.

In addition to his work with the Willoughby Police Department, Gresko was also a full-time officer with the Cleveland Clinic Police Department.

“Just seeing Jason on a daily basis in the halls of the Clinic, he was always smiling and helping people.  He gave an extra effort every single day.  He was a great guy,” said J.R. Sesock, who works for the Cleveland Clinic.

“It just melts your heart that the community has come out and shows their appreciation for someone who serves the community.  Officers risk their lives everyday,” said Erin McKay, who is a nurse at the Cleveland Clinic.

A Jason Gresko Memorial Fund has been set up in his honor.

Contributions to the fund can be made to the Western Lake County F.O.P. in care of Officer Jason Gresko at any local Huntington Bank.

*Click here for extended coverage on the life and passing of Officer Gresko

– Fox 8 News reporter Gabe Spiegel and Melissa Reid and FOX8.com reporter Jessica Dabrowski contributed to this report.