ELYRIA, Ohio -- It was the day to say goodbye.
Ohio State Highway Patrol Trooper Kenneth Velez was laid to rest Thursday, a week after he was struck and killed by a vehicle on I-90.
Mmore than three thousand people joined and supported the Velez family in saying goodbye to a man who spent his life in service to others.
Wednesday, law enforcement from 19 states and Canada made their way to Ohio for the trooper's "end of watch" services.
During his career, Trooper Velez received several commendation letters and awards. He recently celebrated his 48th birthday, and is survived by his three children.
Trooper Velez began training with the Ohio State Highway Patrol's 118th Academy Class in May 1989.
After graduation, he was assigned to the Canfield Post and later transferred to the Elyria Post in February 1992.