Family, friends, and police officers from all over Northern California gathered in a Modesto church, more than 1,500 strong, to remember 53-year-old Stanislaus County Sheriffs' Deputy Robert Paris.
"When I think of my brother, these words come to mind -- kind, compassionate, outgoing, witty, calm and strong," said Krista Torpay, Paris' sister.
Paris and locksmith Glendon Engert were both shot and killed last Thursday, trying to evict 45-year-old Jim Ferrario from his Modesto apartment. Ferrario kept police at bay for 11 hours before his apartment went up in flames. His body was found the next day in the burned out rubble.
At his service, Paris was remembered as a dedicated brother, son and father to his two grown children, a family man and avid outdoorsman, who loved to hunt and fish.
"I'm thankful for our day on the Feather River two weeks ago, and seeing how excited you were when you landed your first steelhead on a fly rod," said Eric Paris, Paris' brother.
Above all, Paris was described as a committed deputy, a man who was kind, compassionate and always calm, even in the most dangerous circumstances.
"Thank you Bob for making a difference. We know you're safe. May God bless you and your family. We'll miss you. We'll never forget you and we'll see you again my friend," said Stanislaus County Sheriff Adam Christianson.
