Michael J. Hance

Message from Australia

I am so sad to finally come across this notice 😢 My nephew and I was watching Michael dancing at the gay pride March , and thought what a kool
Cop . And a very handsome . Sorry to his family it’s a big loss . There should be more cops like him . I hope he has eternal peace . 🙏🏻😢

Message from Simon

Living on the other side of the world I only knew Michael from the dance-video of the gay pride. I was shocked to learn he deceased. There should be more guys like him. My thoughts go to his family and friends.
With love and respect, from The Netherlands.

Message from Peter j Hance Brother

Thank you.
Have not looked at this in long wile
His brother

Message from Rockaway Park NYC

I just went searching to see if anyone ever identified the Pride Cop and learned if your brothers untimely death. As a 63 year old lifelong NY'er who happens to have grown up in Queens , a gay teen at a time when the kindness your brother showed at that Pride parade was unthinkable. I found that video so inspiring not just because it looked like so much fun. We only pogoed to the Ramones so I never got the dancing thing down But more importantly your brother probably gave a hell of a lot of teens wrestling with very emotional issue the self esteem to just be who they are . No matter who that is.

I also come from an FDNY family and one of my nephews was on the pile for almost the entire time He kind of lost it looking for friends. He has suffered with 9/11 related illnesses ever since but is hanging in there. I wish he could have seen you brothers video. Maybe he might not be so harsh in his opinion about the things that make us different and the ability of those same things to unite us.

I know that I am a better person for having kearned about your brother as a whole person and not just a video.

I hope his family especially his daughters know that small act of silliness probably gave hope to thousands of young lgbtq men.

I will be donating to the NYPD Widows &Children Fund in his name.

I wish your family the comfort of love and kindness.

Sincerely

John Vetter

Message from C.J. Louis

So sorry to hear, my thoughts and prayers are with you all.

Expression of Sympathy

A Designers Choice was ordered on March 17, 2017

Message from Alan, Brighton, UK

So very sad to hear this news; an admirable man, only doing his best to help humankind, should suffer in this way. Words are never enough, may he be resting at peace, and know that his legacy and deeds carry his name on so positively. My sincere condolences to all those affected by his loss, may they find comfort in the memories of a great and loved man.

Message from Christopher Babick, Chester NJ

A wonderful man. My heartfelt condolences. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.

Message from Gary Harwood

I didn't know Michael but read about him in Attitude.....he seemed like a remarkable and wonderful man. God bless his family and daughters, another great person lost.

Gary Harwood - Dublin, Ireland.

Message from Tracey MacAllister (Oban,Scotland)

im so sorry for your loss Our condolences to the family.

Message from Michael

Rest in Peace, Michael. So sorry we never got that dance.
He was taken way to young and my thoughts and prayers are with you at this most difficult time.

Message from Sean Ward

Mike, I will miss you my friend. You were a great person and cop. You always made us laugh and will never be forgotten. Until we meet again brother rest easy.

Message from Christophe in Cardiff

R.I.P Michael's....Condoleance for family, never forget you and your happiness, thank you to show us the sun, the life with your smile always be there.

Message from G. Wood

My condolences for the loss of your young hero, taken far too soon. Sorrow breaks down the separations we impose upon ourselves and our tribes. No matter one's beliefs, we all know grief to be the greatest pain we can bear.

Message from Jennifer Coden

My thoughts are with you at this difficult time. Michael was one of a kind, a diamond in the rough. He will be missed by all of those lucky enough to have had the pleasure of having met him.

Message from a fellow New Yorker

Michael helped make all of us in NYC proud of our police department., and we'll all miss him. My deepest sympathy to his entire family for their loss.

Stuart Kaufman

Message from Steven Smith

An inspiration and an ally. My you forever Rest In Peace. 🌈

Expression of Sympathy

A Pedestal Arrangement was sent on March 16, 2017

Dear Bram and Hance Families, We are so sorry to hear of your tremendous loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. With Love, The Boudin Family

Message from Jeremy Hume

A brave man, who deserved a longer life. May he be in a better place. My thought with the family, colleagues and friends.

Message from Scotland, UK

I am so truly sorry for your loss. Not only had Mochael touched my heart in the small clip taken at pride but to have been a helper after the tragedy of 9/11.... he really is a hero by definition. My heart pours out to you all at this sad time. Pleade take a small piece of comfort in knowing that there are many, many people out there who will feel the same way as I do. You only need to look at the comments made on social media. God bless you all and may Michael rest in peace

A candle was lit by Susan Jones on March 16, 2017 12:43 PM

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Shocking to me that Michael has passed. Another 9/11 Ground Zero first responder, like my former husband Steve, succumbing to the lethal toxicity of working the pile. Steve at age 58, and now Michael at 44. When Michael was a little fella, because you guys lived next door to me, he and I used to sit on the curb for long spells of time and just talk. He was a freckle-faced sweetie with a wickedly good sense of humor who swore than when his 12-year-old self was old enough, he would make me his girlfriend. We ran into each other many times through the years, and though that promise never came to fruition, I was always happy to see he never changed who he was. It seems to me that Michael charmed all the people in his life with that same tendency to laugh at life and enjoy the ride. Very sad to hear this news. It's been years since I've seen him (or seen any of you), but I'm grateful to have known Michael, and to see that even just 2 years before this untimely death, he was still loving life and dancing in the streets. My deepest condolences to every one of you in the Hance family. I am so sorry I can't make the trip cross country to pay honor to Michael and offer my love and support to you all. Please know that my heart is with you all. I understand more than you know.

Message from Walles Bolhuis

My deepest codolence to the family. A Hero in many ways. Those acts will not be forgotten and have been seen on the other side. Im absolutely sure his in a good please and him show his présence in time to his beloved family.

RIP

Walles Bolhuis
The Netherlands

Message from alan jones

taken too soon
michael you were a complete star in your time now you can shine on in heaven my frend.
our paths never crossed but what you did for our community blessed my heart
rest in peace
xx

Message from Wally Young

Deepest regards and sympathy for your loss. But rest in the assurance that Michael is out of pain, and dancing before the throne of God. He was truly one if God's angels on earth and he set an example for others to follow. As he rests in peace I hope you are able to live in peace as the love of God hds and keeps you.

Message from United Kingdom

I didn't personally meeq Michael but he was a well known face of acceptance and a strong ally of the LGBT community. My deepest condolences to his family and loved ones for the loss of a truly remarkable man.

Message from Ray Hunsaker

Thank YOU for the time YOU made America safer AND for the incredibly funny, joy to watch, video on our parade day. R.I.P. God Bless YOU and please GOD BLESS U.S.A.

Message from Russell Downey

To Michaels family, i am so sorry for your loss. I knew Michael from elementary school and the JR High when i lived in Bethpage and also played Soccer with him. My prayers and thoughts are with you all.

Message from Dr. Christopher Blackwell

Words cannot describe the sorrow I have in my heart for your family. Mike was an amazing human being who will now forever live in the embrace and light of Christ. Thank you for blessing this world with your spirit Mike.

Message from ATM

The video of Officer Hance dancing during the parade brought smiles to many people and helped solidify my respect for the police. I thank him for his service to the city and please accept my condolences.

Message from DANIEL PAUL DRENT

While, I do not personally know Michael or any of his family, his twerking at NYC Pride, made the world smile. I am sure he will be missed by all, but Heaven will be having a great dance party now!

A candle was lit by Javier Hidalgo on March 15, 2017 9:51 PM

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My Sincere Condolences to the Family and Friends of Michael Hance. A true American Hero to all of us. My thoughts and prayers will go out to him and his family. God Bless your soul buddy Rest in Peace.

Message from Jeffrey M Sroufe

Thank you for your service.

Message from Jim

I don't know this amazing man but I wish I had the privilege of doing so. I know him from his dancing video at pride but I suspect it speaks volumes of who he is as a man. The world is a less interesting place with his passing. Please know that people loved him. Even those who never met him.

Message from Calvin Townsell

R.I.P.

Message from Bill

An angel in blue is lost! Heartbreaking to know his death was from caring for his fellow man! An American hero in every sense of the word! I can't even imagine the pain and sorrow, and the void his passing will create! Heaven is a little better with his arrival!

Message from John

My condolences. I think that if you published an address for a college fund, the LGBT community will crowd source for it. He will be greatly missed.

Message from Steven Hart

So sorry for your loss. Michael was an example for all of us.

Message from Peter in Brooklyn

People outside of his large circle of family and friends learned about Michael in 2015 when the video of him dancing during PRIDE touched everyone's hearts. Now the painful reminder that 9/11 is still taking people from us is painful. Michael was a true hero in many ways.

Message from Bill S.

Michael Hance made me cry in 2015. I used to date a cop, and knew that in many departments gay people were treated with disdain / disgust. Seeing this straight male officer dancing at the parade in 2015 with a gay guy just made me burst into tears, because he made me think that the world was actually changing for the better. I read of his passing yesterday, and tears came down my cheeks again. The world lost someone who was, to me, an icon: like a religious image, the image of him dancing represented so much joy, hope, and love. So angry and sad that 9/11 continues to wage war on the first responders. Prayers to the Hance family; prayers especially for his daughters.

Message from N. L. Johnson

My condolences and prayers are with the Hance family at this difficult time. I met Michael many years ago when he responded to a call. We talked about being in law enforcement and became friends. I am saddened by his passing and know he is at peace. Dearest Michael, You are truly one of New York's Finest and a hero. Sleep in peace my friend, you will be missed.

P.O. N. L. Johnson
NCPD

Message from robert connelly in cab san lucas

never knew the man, but so admired the joy we all got to see when he became briefly famous via viral video. then getting to know how much he gave, how brave he was, and how beloved he will always be... simply a good guy and a cop... just had to write to say i wish he had been a friend of mine. much love to all family, friends and police officers in his sphere, from someone he touched at great distance.

Message from Jason Childers

I am so sad to hear of Officer Hance's passing. I only know of him from his dancing at the Gay Pride parade in 2015, but we were all able to see what a fun and good-natured man he was. My best and prayers to his family, friends and co-workers.

Message from David Ciminello

I so wish our country took better care of its people, its heroes. Thank you for being an hero. Thank you for being a friend. Rest in Peace. Lots of love to you and your family. Godspeed.

Message from Jose And Scott

Big hug from a couple of old retired guys in Florida. He sounded like a cool guy. We're giving your friends and family all the love we've got.

Message from Felix in LA

What a great human being! God Bless.

Message from David in Burlingame

I didn't know Michael, but the short video of him dancing at a Pride event brought a smile to me. Just seemed like a really good guy! Best Wishes & Love to his family.

Message from Eric Root

Was very sorry to read about the loss of Officer Hance, At a time when there's so much unhappiness and discord in the world it was uplifting to see Officer Hance dance and show people that we can all get along and have fun in the process. Rest in peace Officer Hance.

Message from MARC

THANKS FOR BEING A TRUE HERO FOR ALL,NEVER KNEW YOU .BUT WERE ALL NEW YORKERS,RIP

Expression of Sympathy

A Mountain Meadow Pedestal Arrangement was sent on March 15, 2017

Michael, Thank you for all the laughs and fun over the years. I always enjoyed your company. Especially our private conversations about the job. My kids miss you also and they are better adults thanks to you. You will be missed and never forgotten. The Copertino's Andy, Andrew, Ashley & Brandon

Expression of Sympathy

An A Garden Path was ordered on March 15, 2017

Message from Yancey Cuuugan

Michael strived to make a difference in people's lives, whether it was with family, with his fellow responders, or with the people of NYC.

Some people strive and are content for their moment in the sun. Michael is one of those who unselfishly sought a better world for all. Because all lives matter. Thank you.

Message from Gareth from Australia

Michael touched the lives of LGBT people around the world. My condolences to his friends and family.

Message from jack magnan

please don't forget ADORED by millions of LGBT fans around the world because of a few indelible seconds of spontaneous joy, and complete acceptance. the world need more like officer hance, now more than ever.

A candle was lit by New York, NY on March 14, 2017 11:32 PM

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Wow, so sorry to hear of his passing. So very sorry for your loss. We thank him for his service and for impacting so many lives, he will never be forgotten.

Expression of Sympathy

A Monet's Garden Table Basket was ordered on March 14, 2017

Message from Bill Volpe

My sincere condolences to the Hance family during this difficult time. Mike and I were in the same company in the police academy. We got to know eachother very well during that time. He was a great guy with a good heart. We would run into eachother every now and than at work and always had something to joke/laugh about. I can't believe your gone. You are a hero and will truly be missed my brother.

Message from Paige from BASL

We never formally met but I was the person that filmed my friend dancing with you during gay pride a couple years ago and then it went viral. We never formally met but I really wish we did because you really seem like a cool guy. While dancing with my friend seemed like such a silly thing at the time, it meant a lot of things to a lot of different people and I just wanted to thank you for that. I can tell that you were an awesome person, thank you for serving our city.

Expression of Sympathy

A Traditional Funeral Basket was sent by Alyssa Scannello and Gabriella Sustrean on March 14, 2017

Message from Kevin B

Donna and Family: I am so sorry to hear of Michael's passing! I will remember all the good times when we were growing up and at the firehouse parties and he was the best dancer in the joint at an early age! We picked up "our girls" almost everyday for years at CBS and always found time to talk! I'm going to miss him !! God Bless you all.

Message from Patty D'Accolti

Dear Donna and family-my prayers and condolences are with you at this time of grief. So sorry for your loss. May Michael Rest In Peace..

Message from Dan and Pat Portolano

So sorry to hear of your loss. Prayers coming your way.

Message from Rick Montana

Peter, I knew you from Ladder 3 back in the early 70 s. So sorry to hear of the loss of your son.

Message from Brian Durr

Barbara , Peter and family. You guys are in our prayers. I am so sorry. He is in a better place and at Peace. Barbara I am sorry I will not be able to be at the services, I am sending you a big hug.

A candle was lit by Gina Padilla *Restani on March 13, 2017 7:56 PM

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My deepest, sincere condolences to you and your entire family. We spent many years growing up together and you are considered family to me. God bless you and may you rest in peace, look over your loved ones and send love from here to those who have gone before you. I am so sorry I can not make the trip to be there in person.

Love from Nevada...
Gina (Restani) Padilla

Message from Lara Arcas

He was taken way to young and my thoughts and prayers are with you at this most difficult time.

Message from Santina Billone (Grizzaffi) and family

Remember Michael as a little boy hanging out on Russell Avenue in Bethpage. What a wonderful man he has grown up to be. We are deeply sorry to hear of his passing. You are all in our thoughts and prayers..

Message from Cousin Scotty

Taken to early. So much we didn't share. I love Michael. You'll llive in my heart forever...

Police lives matter...

Message from George Fox

Donna and family my deepest condolences on the loss of your brother . I know there is not much one can say other than that you are being thought of,prayedfor,and loved Coach and Robin Fox