The Cleveland Police Museum is honored to tell the stories of our Fallen Officers on the anniversary of their End of Watch.
Patrolman Chester R. Burmeister of 652 N. Chillicothe Road, Aurora, Ohio, the beloved husband of Esther, father of Gloria and Sharon, son of Helen and Raymond, was appointed to the Cleveland Police Department on October 1, 1947.
On Wednesday, December 23, 1964, Burmeister arrived at the scene to investigate a three car accident on the Inner Belt. He parked his car close to the damaged cars in the west lane and began directing traffic around them. He was hit a few moments later by a drunk driver.
Burmeister, 44, died shortly after arrival at St. Vincent Charity Hospital. Hospital officials said Burmeister suffered fractures of both arms and legs, head and internal injuries. Accident investigators said he was struck so hard that both shoes were knocked from his feet.
Burmeister was known to his fellow officers as a robust, hearty man who was full of fun and life. He had worked for many years in the Auto Unit of the police department.
On December 29, 1964, services were held for Burmeister at Donald B. Johnson Funeral Home, 521 Broadway, Bedford, Ohio. Policemen, relatives and friends filled the funeral home to pay their last respects to their fallen fellow officer and friend.
