Retired St. Clair Shores K9 Officer Ivan Loses Fight With Cancer

Police Chief Michael Walleman informed attendees at the Optimist Club of St. Clair Shores annual Call to Courage breakfast that retired K9 officer Ivan died on May 1.

Ivan served the department 2006-2011 with handler, Officer Matt Steppey.

Sadly, he died on the same day as the memorial service was held at Blossom Heath Park for K9 officer Chase. He died on April 24 following surgical complications. 

Walleman said that Steppey kept the death of his "best friend" to himself until after the ceremony.

To honor his Ivan's service, the department presented a plaque to Steppey.