Coronavirus Restrictions Prevent Local Law Officer's Family From Seeing His Final Moments

Oklahomans are dealing with coronavirus (COVID-19) in many unexpected ways.

A metro family lost their loved one last week to a sudden heart attack and could not be with Mark Sterling, 62, during his final moments at the Oklahoma Heart Hospital due to COVID-19 restrictions. The family also had to put the former law enforcement officer and decorated military veteran’s memorial service on hold.

“He put on his uniform every day for the people,” said Tim Deal, friend. “For this community.”

Those who knew Sterling said he wore many uniforms during his life.

From the Navy, to his days with the Oklahoma County Sheriff's Office, his search and rescue efforts after the Murrah Building bombing, to most recently Kingfisher County.

Sterling retired earlier this year due to health issues but jumped in to help the Kingfisher County Sheriff whenever he was needed.

“He actually came up Thursday to assist my agency in preparing the essential personnel letters for my staff,” said Dennis Banther, Kingfisher County Sheriff. “And we actually toured our new jail facility that’s being built prior to him going home.”

Hours later Banther got a call that Sterling had a heart attack and did not make it.

“No one in the family could go over to the heart hospital,” said Banther. “They had to stay at the house which I know the Oklahoma City Police Department officers stayed there so they could provide any updates that they got.”

COVID-19 restrictions also forced the military veteran's family to put a memorial service on hold.

“You just can’t do a 10 person or less memorial service for a person who has as much respect as he does,” said Banther.

Until they can say their final goodbyes, Sterling's fellow law officers remembered his work and the lives he touched.

“Mark deserves to be honored for his life and his commitment and dedication to the community,” said Deal. “To the county and to the nation. He was an outstanding military man.”

Sterling's wife plans to hold a military memorial service once restrictions on large gatherings are lifted.