In Memory Of Capt. Walter Ciszek

The retired Upland Police captain who helped inspire a community to organize and participate in today's blood drive has died.

Claremont Police Lt. Mike Ciszek and his family organized the blood drive through Cedar's Sinai Medical Center in honor of his father, Capt. Walter Ciszek. The retired captain had been battling cancer. For more information on the drive, click here.

Betty Crocker, founder of Keeping the GOOD in Our Neighborhood, delivered the news to friends and supporters of the Ciszek's late this morning.

Her email is below:

"I received an email at 8a from Mike that Walt passed peacefully with his family at his side at 7:11a.

Walt knew all the efforts of the blood drive and was very grateful. We often wonder how we can help our friends and family when they loved one passes.

I think the blood drive today is God's plan and it's time for all of us to give a pint.

I'm sure Walt would be thrilled to see all that were doing to help pay it forward to other cancer patients and honor to Ciszek family.

Thank you."