COLDWATER-MI (WTVB) – Hundreds of people lined the streets of Coldwater Tuesday to pay their final respects to longtime Director of Public Safety Joseph Scheid, joining family, friends, community members, and law enforcement officers from across Michigan in honoring a man remembered for his dedication to public service.
Scheid, died suddenly Aug. 3 at the Coldwater Public Safety Building, bringing an outpouring of support from throughout the community.
The Dearth Center at the Branch County Fairgrounds was filled for Scheid’s funeral service. Those who knew him described a devoted family man and a respected public servant whose leadership was marked by humility, compassion, and a commitment to making the community better.
Pastor Mark Case spoke about Scheid’s Christian faith and his lifelong desire to serve others. Deputy Police Chief Pat Beeman and former Public Safety Director Mark Bartell recalled a leader who built strong relationships throughout Coldwater and beyond, including with schools, businesses, churches, and law enforcement agencies.
Scheid’s career included time as a K-9 officer and work in drug enforcement and prevention. Colleagues said he was determined to strengthen the department while always making time to help people in need.
His daughters remembered their father as a devoted “girl dad” who encouraged them, built their confidence through sports, and created lasting memories through outdoor adventures.
His sister, Lisa Wallbaum, shared personal stories about Scheid and thanked the community for the tremendous support shown to the family. She also encouraged people to continue supporting the men and women who dedicate their lives to protecting others.
Gary Chester, who originally hired Scheid, and Bartell, whom Scheid eventually succeeded as director, served as pallbearers.
After the funeral, a large procession of police, fire, and municipal vehicles made its way through downtown Coldwater. Hundreds of residents gathered along the route, standing outside businesses and along city streets to offer a final salute as the procession passed.
The procession paused near the Public Safety Building on Division Street before continuing toward Oak Grove Cemetery along U.S. 12 near the Coldwater River. Traffic was stopped for more than 30 minutes as the cortege made its way to the cemetery, where Scheid was laid to rest.
Scheid joined the Coldwater department in December 1996 after graduating from Grand Valley State University. He was promoted to deputy director in 2016 and became director of public safety in 2019.
For nearly three decades, Scheid served Coldwater in a career that touched countless lives. Tuesday’s funeral and the hundreds who gathered along the procession route reflected the lasting impact he had on the community he served.
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