VENICE (WSNN) – A fallen hero is honored and remembered today in Venice.
Deputy Joshua Welge served 22 years protecting citizens on the Suncoast. Thursday, the coronavirus took his life after battling it for two months.
He served at the Venice Police Department and was a deputy with the Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office.
The Venice Police Department raised a flag outside its building paying tribute to him, Saturday morning.
And dozens of people, along with different agencies came out to show support for his family. Sheriff Kurt Hoffman remembers a moment when he saved someone from taking their life.
“The paramedics on the scene said Josh didn’t hesitate,” Sheriff Hoffman said. “He kicked the door in, went in first, and saved a person’s life. That’s one moment we can focus on in Josh’s life where he was a true public servant.”
Family and friends say he protected, loved, and served as a true hero. The Suncoast will always remember Deputy Welge.
