Vigo County Sheriff John Plasse Obituary: A Life of Dedication and Service

Early Life and Education

Sheriff John A. Plasse was born on October 2, 1963, in Terre Haute, Indiana, to Eli John Plasse and Violet Marie Traverse Plasse. A native of the community he would later serve, he attended Terre Haute North High School, graduating in the class of 1982. He went on to pursue higher education at Indiana State University, obtaining a degree in 1990. Little did he know then that he would go on to become a pillar of the community and an inspiration to those he served and worked alongside.

A Distinguished Law Enforcement Career

Sheriff Plasse’s career in law enforcement spanned decades and was defined by his unwavering commitment and exceptional skill. He joined the Terre Haute Police Department, serving the community that had nurtured him for 33 dedicated years. During this lengthy tenure, he worked across multiple divisions, including the uniform division, criminal investigation division, juvenile division, and the Vigo County Drug Task Force, where he made a tangible impact on the safety and well-being of Terre Haute’s residents.

His leadership qualities and expertise were quickly recognized, and in 2007, he was appointed Chief of Police of the Terre Haute Police Department, a position he held with distinction for 11 years until his retirement from the department in 2018. Under his leadership, the department flourished, and his dedication to duty was recognized when he was named Terre Haute Police Department Officer of the Year in 2004.

Simultaneously, Sheriff Plasse’s remarkable marksmanship skills were also gaining attention. In 2018, he was inducted into the Association of Marksman in the National Guard Shooters Hall of Fame, a testament to his precision and expertise. He was also recognized as one of the few double distinguished military marksmen globally, a rare and prestigious honor.

Service as Vigo County Sheriff

In 2018, the people of Vigo County recognized Sheriff Plasse’s exceptional leadership and elected him as their sheriff. He took office on January 1, 2019, and immediately set to work continuing his lifelong mission of serving and protecting the people of Vigo County. He was re-elected in November 2022, a clear indication of the trust and respect he had earned from his community.

During his time as sheriff, Sheriff Plasse implemented numerous initiatives and programs aimed at enhancing the safety and well-being of Vigo County residents. He worked tirelessly to foster strong relationships between law enforcement and the community, believing that collaboration and mutual respect were key to a safer society. His leadership style inspired those around him, and his influence will undoubtedly continue to shape the sheriff’s office for years to come.

A Battle Bravely Fought

In May 2022, Sheriff Plasse received a stage 1B pancreatic cancer diagnosis, and with the same determination and courage he approached life, he faced this challenge head-on. Despite the difficulties, he continued to serve his community with dedication until the very end. His bravery and strength in the face of adversity inspired all who knew him, and his absence will leave a void in the hearts of those he led and served.

A Man of Integrity and Goodwill

Sheriff John Plasse embodied the values of integrity, service, and goodwill throughout his life. Those who knew him described him as a fair and just leader, always willing to lend a helping hand or a listening ear. He was a mentor to countless officers, a trusted colleague, and a friend to many. His presence brought calm and assurance, and his leadership style was one of compassion and strength.

Mourning and Remembrance

The passing of Sheriff Plasse has left a profound impact on the community he so diligently served. The Vigo County Sheriff’s Office, in a statement, pledged to honor his memory by continuing to serve Vigo County with the same energy, integrity, and goodwill that he instilled within them. They, along with Sheriff Plasse’s family, friends, and fellow officers, will remember and celebrate a life dedicated to service and a spirit that touched so many.

As the community grieves, the outpouring of love and support has been a testament to the impact Sheriff Plasse had on so many lives. Tributes and condolences have poured in, honoring his legacy and offering comfort to those closest to him. The sheriff’s office has expressed its gratitude for the support and has asked for privacy for the family during this difficult time as funeral arrangements are finalized.

A Lasting Legacy

While Sheriff John Plasse’s physical presence may no longer be with us, his legacy will endure forever in the hearts and minds of those he inspired. His dedication to duty, his unwavering commitment to service, and his exceptional leadership have left an indelible mark on Vigo County and the law enforcement community. He has set a standard of excellence that will continue to guide and motivate future generations of officers.

As we bid farewell to a devoted public servant, we find solace in the knowledge that his life had purpose and meaning, and that through his example, he has made the world a safer and better place. Sheriff John Plasse will forever be remembered as a hero—a man who answered the call of service and led with integrity, courage, and a profound sense of duty.

May his tireless work ethic and unwavering dedication inspire us all to strive for excellence in our own ways and to make a positive impact on the world around us. Sheriff John Plasse’s memory will be honored and cherished, and his legacy of service will continue to shine brightly, guiding us toward a brighter future.