Memorial Page

Heaven I  is the Chapter that our members are transferred to upon their death. Their names are displayed in a leather bound book at the Blue Knights International Headquarters office. Beginning in 1996, this memorial book has been taken to the International Convention for display and a reading of the previous years deceased member’s is given with a moment of silence offered on their behalf.

The Chapter XIII Members listed below have been transferred to Heaven I. They will be forever remembered and are truly missed…..

From Chapter XIII Past President Lee Smith (12/07/2022):
It is with sadness that I report the passing of my Cousin, Richard A. (Dick) Smith Jr. Dick was The Charter President of Blue Knights, N.J. 13. He served as President from 1982-1987. Dick was a Deputy Chief of the Wanaque Borough Police Department, moving to the State of Maine after retirement. Pictured here is our club from 1992, Blue Knights, NJ 13, 10th Anniversary celebration, Dick is pictured kneeling in front row, left side. May Dick Rest In Peace, and continue to “Ride with Pride” in Heaven.

From Chapter XIII Past President Lee Smith (11/01/2022):

It is with sadness that I report the passing of long time member and my friend Rich Lydecker. During my time as President, Rich was one the most active in our Blue Knights Chapter. During his tenure, Rich was a Road Captain, Director, and Fund Raising Chairman, bringing in thousands of dollars to the club so we could support our charities. Mary Ann and I traveled with Rich and Jeanne to several Conference Weekends and International Conventions. Rich had Blue Knight friends through out the country and was personal friends to several International Presidents. After his retirement, Rich and Jean sold their house and took off in their R/V, towing his pick up truck with his Goldwing in the back. Rich and Jean continued to support Blue Knight functions throughout the country. Due to health reasons he sadly had to sell his Goldwing. After ten years of travel they settled in Zephyrhills, Florida. Mary Ann and I were lucky enough to visit with Rich and Jean only two weeks ago and made plans to see each other again in March. His passing was a shock to both of us. May Rich Rest In Peace, and continue to “Ride with Pride” in Heaven.

Rich Lydecker and his wife Jeanne
Rich Lydecker (Center) with Past President Lee Smith (On right)
Rich Lydecker and his wife Jeanne at one of many Blue Knight events
Retired Detective Captain Al Wityk / Little Falls Police Department
E.O.W. September 15, 2016
Retired Detective Captain Al Wityk / Little Falls Police Department
E.O.W. September 15, 2016
Retired Captain Frank Yodice, Butler Police Department , Chapter XIII Secretary EOW 5/19/15
Retired Captain Frank “Pesce” Yodice – EOW 5/19/15
Retired Captain Frank Yodice Memorial Ceremony – EOW 5/19/15
Retired NJSP Lt. Preston “Jay” Fairlamb E.O.W. 5-13-12
Lt. Fairlamb (Far Left) and his Squad at NJSP Totowa Station. E.O.W. 5-13-12
Preston “Jay” Fairlamb Honorary Patch