CHERRY HILLS VILLAGE, Colo. — “Giggity.”
This was one of the most common words used during Colorado State Patrol Trooper William Moden's memorial service on Friday afternoon.
The 37-year-old was remembered most for his sense of humor, commitment to public service, amazing hugs, and love for “Family Guy.”
Moden, who leaves behind a wife named Amy and a large family in both “blood and blue,” was on foot and outside his patrol car on Interstate 70 near Deer Trail last Friday when he was struck by a Ford F-250, said CSP Colonel Matthew Packard.
He was in the area investigating another rollover crash as part of his job on the accident reconstruction team.
Moden’s memorial service began with covers of the classic rock songs he loved, including Kenny Loggins’ “Danger Zone” and “Don’t Stop Believin’.”
It was followed by recollections of the people who knew him. His sister in law, Emily Russell, described his loud laugh and infectious personality. She described how, when her father died, Moden stood at his casket and made a vow.
“He said ‘don’t worry, dad. I’ll take care of those three girls,” Russell said, fighting back tears. “That moment, Will became our knight in shining armor.”
Russell said she wanted Moden to go out the way he lived: with joy.
“Will wanted us to go on laughing and celebrating things in life,” she said. “… and for his love of family guy, I will end with this: Giggity.”
RELATED: Driver who hit, killed Colorado state trooper isn’t believed to have been impaired, CSP says
This same word was later repeated by the hundreds of family, friends and strangers who came to Denver First Church to celebrate Moden’s life.
He was posthumously selected to receive the honorary rank of “master trooper,” which denotes “leadership, strength of character, and as an individual worth emulating among our membership.”
“Giggity,” a room full of people who love Moden said, laughing.
The family has asked that donations be made in lieu of flowers to The Adoption Exchange at adoptex.org.
Financial contributions can be made to The CSP Family Foundation at the address below:
Attention: Modén Family Fund
55 Wadsworth Blvd.
Lakewood, CO 80226
Donations can also be made by clicking/tapping here and then selecting the Modén Family Fund from the drop-down box.
Cards for Modén’s family can be dropped off at or mailed to the CSP Adams County Office at 8200 US. Hwy 85 Commerce City, CO 80022, between the hours of 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Thursday.
SUGGESTED VIDEOS | Local stories from 9NEWS