Sgt. Michael Findley 'just loved being a cop'

St. Paul police Sgt. Michael Findley was talented at building personal relationships, quelling turmoil on the streets and getting new officers off to a good start.

Findley, who until recently served as a patrol boss, and had worked as an investigator in fraud and forgery, narcotics and homicide, died of heart failure on May 13 in Rochester, Minn.

The Coon Rapids resident was 48.

Findley had been waiting for a heart transplant, after his heart was damaged in cancer treatment 20 years ago, said his family.

After graduation from Rockford High School in 1978, he served in the Marine Corps. When he returned to Minnesota, he earned an associate degree in business from North Hennepin Community College in Brooklyn Park.

After serving as an Anoka County corrections officer for three years, he was hired by the St. Paul Police Department in 1989.

"He was a wonderful police sergeant," said Senior Commander Colleen Luna of the department. "Not only did he know the job and love the job, he was passionate about working with the community."

Luna said Findley defused the problem with his humor and his honesty.

"He had them talking to each other, and staying in the same room with each other an hour later," said Luna. "To this day, it's a far better block."

"No matter who he worked with, he made it personal. That personal touch solved many controversies," said Luna, who called him an inspiration for her career.

In his current post, he sent his officers off to begin their shifts, telling them what's up on the street and sharing the latest wanted posters.

After roll call, he often told them: "Have fun out there," reported Jeff Gilsrud, a St. Paul officer.

Jeff Olson, an Anoka County Sheriff's Office deputy, said Findley was his best friend, and inspired him to get into law enforcement.

"He was a special guy, and he made everybody feel special," said Olson. "I never saw the man angry. I miss the grin on his face."

Findley was on duty until March.

His wife, Roxy, of Coon Rapids said he was upbeat and brought laughter to the room.

"He just loved being a cop," said his wife.