Captain Daniel L. Affalter

Daniel L. Affalter was born September 10, 1954, a Lawrence resident since the 3rd grade, graduated from LHS in 1972. Daniel began his career as a Police Officer with the Lawrence Police Department on March 21, 1976. Throughout his 33 years of service, he served as a supervisor in every division; he was promoted to Sergeant December 1984, to Lieutenant August 1991 and to Captain September 2004. Upon his retirement in December 2008, he was presented the Honorable Service Medal for his unquestioned commitment to the public, the City of Lawrence and the Police Department. He received dozens of letters of commendation from citizens, co-workers, regional and local prosecutors, and the Office of the Chief. He received multiple letters of gratitude from the FBI, Kansas City Field Office, Special Agent in Charge for his work with the Central States Law Enforcement Executive Development Seminar (C.S.L.E.E.D.S.) and instructed in virtually every Basic Recruit Academy and in each of the 18 Citizens Academies.

He was active in the local Fraternal Order of Police. Captain Affalter received the department's Meritorious Service Award December 2006 for years of service, most notably leadership in the Investigations Division where he faithfully honored the pledge, "Not on my watch!" He was also known for his work with many charitable organizations - Boy Scout Troop 55, Quail & Upland Wildlife Federation, Headquarters Counseling Center, The Shelter Board, Inc., social services groups and three plus decades of organization and instruction in Hunter Education's Safety Programs. His constant priority was to pass on knowledge to the next generation. Daniel's dedication, professionalism and years of faithful service is a benchmark for others to achieve. To many in the Department, Captain Affalter was more than a co-worker, he was a friend, mentor, and leader. His legacy reminds us that good work and ethical moral decision making does still stand for something.

Dan married Dianna on September 5, 1982 and the couple raised their son, Daniel L. Affalter II, and daughters Sarah Affalter and Katelyn Affalter. After an 8-year battle with cancer he died on June 21, 2016.