CLEVELAND — “It’s a constant reminder for us to never take a moment for granted,” said Sgt. Ray Santiago with the Ohio State Highway Patrol.
Trooper Kenneth Velez is being remembered as a hero, an officer devoted to public service and a man who loved his family.
“Kenny had a great sense of humor, he liked to joke around," said Sgt. Christopher Ausse with the Medina Post. "He was a family guy."
RELATED: Funeral for trooper Kenneth Velez
His life was cut short after he was struck by a vehicle on I-90 in September 2016, but his memory and service lives on with the help of his coworkers creating a space for remembrance right off the highway.
“It’s more than just another sign on a roadway to all of us," Sgt. Santiago said.
A therapeutic way to keep memories alive, but also a reminder for drivers to slow down.
"It's a reminder of what it means and what can happen when you choose to live a life of putting service above self," Sgt. Santiago said.
A man of service leaving behind a legacy. He will be greatly missed.
Editor's note: Video in the player above was originally published in a previous article on Aug. 31, 2018.