HOYT LAKES — The Iron Range community is pouring out support for the family of a police officer who died suddenly Friday, Feb. 27.
Sgt. Cody Siebert of the East Range Police Department died less than 24 hours after being diagnosed with a brain infection, according to a social media post from the department
He leaves behind his partner Karen and two young sons, Reese, 2, and Bayne, 1, a GoFundMe said.
Siebert was a K-9 officer for the department and the Mesabi East School District. He previously worked with the Babbitt Police Department.
Siebert was a happy-go-lucky person who got along with everyone, the department’s post stated.
“It was best said that if you couldn’t get along with Cody, it was your fault. ... The hole left by Sgt. Siebert’s passing will be impossible to fill.”
Siebert had the gift of connection, the GoFundMe and a post from the school district said.
“If you crossed paths with him, you knew you were in for a genuine conversation,” the fundraiser stated. “He truly enjoyed people, and his absence leaves a void in our community that will be felt by many.”
Mesabi East Dean of Students Michelle Metzig wrote that Siebert saw the potential in every student.
“He believed in kids, even when they struggled to believe in themselves. He admired the hearts of our staff and never hesitated to show his appreciation for the work they do each day. His enthusiasm was contagious, and forming a connection with him was effortless. He made people feel seen, valued, and safe,” Metzig wrote.
“The impact he had on our students and staff cannot be measured. He wasn’t just our K-9 officer, he was a mentor, a role model, a friend, and a steady, positive presence in our Giants community.
"We will miss his smile, his energy, and the way he could light up a room simply by walking into it. But most of all, we will carry forward the kindness, belief, and compassion he showed to every single person he encountered.”
By Monday afternoon, over 900 donors had raised over $96,000 on the GoFundMe for Siebert’s family. The funds will go toward immediate expenses and memorial costs and supporting his family now and into the future.
Siebert’s squad car is on display outside the East Range Police Department in Hoyt Lakes. The department said the public is welcome and encouraged to visit and leave mementos.
