The Shelby County Sheriff’s Office today (Thursday) announced in a social media post, “The unexpected passing [on Thursday] of Sergeant Donavon Dontje. Sergeant Dontje started his career with the Sheriff’s Office in 2006 and was a vital member of the office.

Sgt. Donovan Dontje

“He touched many lives throughout his career and will be sorely missed. We ask for privacy for the family at this time and send our sincere condolences to all that had the privilege to know and love him.” Condolences flooded the Shelby County Sheriff’s and City of Audubon’s Facebook pages.

Audubon Police Chief Matt Starmer said “Donovan Dontje is a part time police officer for the Audubon Police Department since 2008 and most importantly, a great friend. Our condolences to his family, the Shelby County Sheriff’s Office and to everyone that knew him. He will be missed greatly.”

Additional information concerning Sgt. Dontje’s death was not provided.