OUR HEROES
TWO LIVES OF SERVICE. TWO LEGACIES THAT CONTINUE TO INSPIRE.
Officer Michael J. Katherman, Badge 3900
On June 14, 2016, San Jose Police Officer Michael J. Katherman lost his life in the line of duty. He was serving with the Traffic Enforcement Unit and was struck by another vehicle while conducting targeted enforcement on his police motorcycle. Officer Katherman dedicated eleven years to the San Jose Police Department and became the thirteenth officer in the department’s history to be killed while serving his community.
Luther P. Rodarte, USFS Wildland Firefighter
On September 1, 1967, United States Fire Service Wildland Firefighter and Forest Ranger Luther P. Rodarte lost his life in the line of duty. While assigned to the Sundance Fire in Idaho, he died heroically in a devastating fire storm. Rodarte was an eleven‑year veteran of the U.S. Forest Service, remembered for his service and sacrifice.
ABOUT MIKE
ABOUT LU
Lu shared a deep love for the outdoors. When he wasn’t fighting fires, some of his greatest joys were hunting on horseback, fishing, and camping with his wife, Glafida, and their five children—Carol, Cindy, Cath, Roger, and David. He also delighted in playing Smokey the Bear at local schools and the county fair, bringing smiles to countless children. Lu’s strong faith in Christ shaped the way he led his family and the kindness he showed to everyone around him.
Mike had a deep love for the outdoors. Some of his happiest moments were spent camping with April and their boys, Josh and Jason, where their trips were filled with dirt bikes, fishing poles, bike rides, and long hikes. He also had a passion for sports. Whether he was playing or coaching his sons, you could count on finding him on a basketball court or baseball field. Mike’s family was his priority. He was a devoted husband, an involved and loving dad, and a treasured son, grandson, brother, uncle, cousin, and friend. Mike was also a man of strong faith. His love for the Lord guided everything he did, and the legacy he leaves is one that will forever point to Christ.
