The police department and the broader community in Hiawatha mourn the loss of one of their own.

Police Chief John Defore posted a news release on social media to announce that Officer Michael Thompson has passed away Wednesday morning at Stormont Vail Hospital in Topeka, KS.

Chief Defore says officer Thompson was as “a fixture” at the Police department since 1978.

“Words don’t seem to convey the true gratitude that we feel in knowing Officer Thompson,” Chief Defore said.

“He will certainly be missed among his police and city family. On behalf of the entire City Commission and all city employees, our sincerest sympathies go out to Officer Thompson’s family.”

Arrangements are pending at Chapel Oaks Funeral Home in Hiawatha.