Ceresco community shows up in big way for family of Officer Ross Bartlett
CERESCO, Neb. (KLKN) – The community of Ceresco showed up in droves Tuesday night to a benefit for the family of Officer Ross Bartlett.
The Legendary Red Rooster Restaurant & Lounge was packed as people did their part to honor Bartlett, who was killed in a crash Friday night on Highway 77.
“Even if they didn’t know the officer really well, they just want to be supportive,” said Arnie Lowell, who lives in Ceresco.
SEE ALSO: ‘It can’t be’: Friends in disbelief after Nebraska police officer killed in line of duty
Lowell was one of the many people in attendance who didn’t know Bartlett personally. But he said it was still important to show up for one of their own.
“We take some of the officers and the people that support the town for granted sometimes,” he said. “Then when there’s a loss, we realize how much they did for us and how much of a sacrifice that is.”
Everyone at the benefit got to learn more about Bartlett, even in something as small as the menu.
SEE ALSO: Nebraska eatery raising money for family of fallen Ceresco Police officer
“The Bartlett Special” was flying out of the kitchen all night.
It consisted of hamburger steak with gravy, homemade onion rings and green beans.
The owner of the restaurant said it was one of Bartlett’s favorites.
SEE ALSO: Funeral details released for Ceresco Police Officer Ross Bartlett
Kathy Hartshorn said she met Bartlett a while ago — in a manner of speaking.
“Well, about 4½ years ago, I actually had the opportunity to meet Officer Bartlett personally when I got a ticket from him,” she laughed.
Despite their less-than-optimal meeting, Hartshorn said when she heard of his death, she knew she had to do what she could to support his family.
SEE ALSO: Mile-long procession brings fallen Ceresco officer from Omaha to Lincoln
While Bartlett was a fireman and police officer, he was also a husband, father and grandfather.
The benefit is a way to remember the person behind the badge.
Hartshorn said it’s heartwarming to see that the people in the community are doing what they can to honor Bartlett.
“The firemen, they’ve done a wonderful memorial with the firetruck and the flags that they have on it,” she said. “It’s very touching to see it.”
Tuesday was only the first night of the benefit for Bartlett’s family.
The restaurant will be open again Wednesday and Thursday from 5 to 9 p.m.
