Hundreds pay their respects to NSP trooper who died from cancer

A Nebraska State Trooper who served 33 years with the agency was laid to rest Wednesday. 

A Nebraska State Trooper who served 33 years with the agency was laid to rest Wednesday.

Lt. Craig Loveless died on March 27 after a lengthy battle with cancer. He served the patrol in numerous capacities throughout his career that began in 1987.

Loveless’ family chose to delay his funeral service so that more people could attend than under the previous 10-person limit for gatherings. His funeral service was held at Lifegate Church in Omaha, and adhered to social distancing guidelines with minimal attendance. It was also live-streamed for hundreds of people.

Many who could not attend due to social distancing guidelines were able to participate in a procession between the church and cemetery. The line of vehicles in the procession covered more than one mile from beginning to end.

“Craig’s impact on our agency, and more specifically the people of the State Patrol, will be felt for generations to come,” said Colonel John Bolduc, Superintendent of the Nebraska State Patrol. “He was a leader and mentor in the truest sense. His dedication to service and tenacious desire to help others will serve as a model for all Troopers and others privileged to know him.”

Part of Loveless’ tenure with NSP included his role as Sergeant at the NSP Training Academy in Grand Island, where he served for nine years. While there, roughly 25 percent of all current NSP Troopers went through basic recruit camp.