Karl Smalley Memorial

On December 18th, 2025 Adams County Sheriff’s Office Commander Karl Smalley funeral was held at the Brave Church, 3800 E. Hampden Ave. in Englewood. A large law enforcement procession was held before the service from Olinger’s Cemetery on S. Colorado Blvd. to the church. At the family’s request, the service was private and was only open to law enforcement and emergency services personnel and closed to the public. Commander Smalley was 67 years-old and passed away suddenly on December 8th, 2025. deputies responded to a report of a missing person in Watkins. Upon arrival, deputies found Commander Smalley near Box Elder Creek. He was not breathing and was later pronounced deceased. Commander Smalley had just started his day and was on-duty at the time, and his passing is being treated as a line of duty death. Commander Smalley honorably served the Adams County Sheriff’s Office for more than 30 years. He is survived by his wife, Tracey. Commander Smalley graduated from Cherry Creek High School and began his law enforcement career with the Arapahoe County Sheriff’s Office. He later worked for Grand County in the jail and spent 13 years with the Colorado Department of Corrections before coming to work for the Adams County Sheriff’s Office. At the time of his passing, Commander Smalley served as the Commander of District 5, overseeing the Watkins and Strasburg areas. Throughout his distinguished career, he led several programs, including Explorer Post 2045, Posse, Reserve Program, and Mobile Field Force. He was heavily involved with the Rampart Search & Rescue Team and was a subject matter expert in driving instruction. His leadership, dedication, and influence were felt across the agency and the community. Beyond his professional achievements, Karl was widely known as a kind, genuine, and compassionate individual. He was a devoted husband, a trusted colleague, and a dear friend to many. His warm presence and unwavering commitment to serving others left an enduring impact on the countless people who had the privilege of knowing him. Commander Smalley’s contributions to the Adams County Sheriff’s Office and the community will forever be remembered. He will be deeply missed. Information provided by Adams County Sheriff’s Office

Memorial donations can be made to the Colorado Police Officer’s Foundation to assist Karl’s family https://checkout.square.site/merchant/MLT809PQ0C8KY/checkout/YXL2DCTVUBR323VD6VFIOSQG