RAVENNA, Ohio — The Ravenna Police Department has announced the "tragic and sudden" death of 27-year-old officer Thomas "Tom" Wike, Jr.
Wike passed away at his home on Friday, according to his obituary from Briceland Funeral Service, LLC. No other details have been provided.
Born in Sharon, Pennsylvania, Wike graduated from Brookfield High School in 2014. After high school, he enlisted with the Ohio Army National Guard served as a diesel mechanic and recovery specialist for eight years..
Following his honorable discharge from the Army National Guard, Wike graduated from Youngstown State University with a bachelor's degree in criminal justice in 2020. He also met his future wife, Samantha, at YSU.
After completing work at the Ohio Peace Officer Training Academy, Wike was sworn in as a patrolman with the Ravenna Police Department in October of 2020.
"Tom honorably served the Ravenna community for three years with dedication and compassion," Ravenna police wrote on its Facebook page. He had made a goal for himself to become a K-9 officer for the department.
Calling hours for Officer Wike will be held on Wednesday, Nov. 1 from 1-4 p.m. at Briceland Funeral Service, LLC, located at 379 State Route 7 SE in Brookfield. A private funeral service will be held on Thursday.
Expressions of sympathy may be left for Officer Wike's family at Briceland's website.
As a final tribute, memorial contributions can be made to Copline, a nonprofit dedicated to serving active and retired law enforcement officers and their loved ones.
"Our hearts are broken, and our deepest condolences are with the Wike family," Ravenna police added.