My father spent his career working to protect society and the rights of individuals. A judge in a small town, my father was the ideal public servant. He was so ethical, he once refused to accept the modest gift of a holiday turkey.

Saturday nights, he stayed up late to pick me and my friends up from school dances. Sunday mornings, he was at the church lectern, leading responses.

Right up to the end, family and community came first. After dropping my sister at the airport gate, he noticed she left her newspaper behind and talked the boarding agent into bringing it to her on the plane.

Two hours later, he was dead from a drunk driver. A repeat offender who was so drunk he went the wrong way on an exit ramp.

At his funeral, my father was recognized by all those in the community who were touched by his contributions: Law enforcement, faith and business communities, families, neighborhoods, and individuals. These same sectors have the power to make sure that our best efforts to protect ourselves aren't undermined.

By working together, we can make sure people like my father live to see their grandchildren.