Lebanon community pays respects to officer Kendle Blackburn

LEBANON, Mo. (KY3) -

The Lebanon Police Department said Officer Kendle Blackburn was the friendliest officer you could meet. Family, friends, community members and emergency personnel agencies paid their respects as he was laid to rest.

Missouri Governor Mike Parson has ordered all U.S. and Missouri flags to be flown at half-staff at Laclede County’s government buildings on Saturday to honor a Blackburn.

“As much as Officer Kendle has gave to the community and everybody he was the nicest man you’ll ever meet ,”said John Jutras.

Blackburn passed away on Monday from the Coronavirus, his fellow officers said he fought a tough battle. He was 55-years-old and has been in law enforcement for over 20 years. His obituary said he also served as a deputy with Laclede County Sheriff’s Office and a brief time with Richland Police Department.

”He was very community oriented. He was for the people,” said Jutras.

Saturday, a full honor service was held for Blackburn at a Lebanon funeral home and he was laid to rest at Mt. Rose memorial Park Cemetery. His procession included dozens of law enforcement and fire agencies. Community members were also in attendance paying their respects as he was escorted through his hometown of Lebanon one last time.

”He’s going to be very much missed but his memory will live on,” said Jutras.

Officer Kendle Blackburn leaves behind a wife and three sons.

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