POLICE OFFICER AND FATHER OF 2 DIES LESS THAN 24 HOURS AFTER BRAIN INFECTION DIAGNOSIS. (PHOTO).

 He Truly Enjoyed People - Police Officer and Father of 2 Dies Less Than 24 Hours After Brain Infection Diagnosis

Minnesota Officer and Father Leaves a Lasting Impact on Family, Students, and Community

Sgt. Cody Siebert of the East Range Police Department passed away unexpectedly on February 27, less than 24 hours after doctors diagnosed him with a brain infection. The Minnesota officer leaves behind a grieving partner and two young children, ages 2 and 1.

A GoFundMe campaign set up to support his family described Siebert as someone who had a “rare gift for connection.” “To know Cody was to have a friend,” the page read. 

“If you crossed paths with him, you were in for a genuine conversation. He truly enjoyed people, and his absence leaves a void that will be felt by many.” 

By Tuesday, March 3, the fundraiser had raised over $100,000 toward its $120,000 goal to help the family with immediate expenses and memorial costs as they adjust to life without him.

Photos shared on the campaign show Siebert enjoying time with his partner and children outdoors. In one, his partner holds their older son while making a funny face, Siebert stands nearby, and their younger son naps in a stroller. Other images highlight Siebert at a wedding, coaching a youth basketball team, and working with his K9 squad.

Beyond his role as a father and police officer, Siebert served at Mesabi East Schools in Aurora, Minn., as a K9 officer. Dean of Students Michelle Metzig praised him for his positive influence. “Mesabi East was truly blessed to have him walking our halls, greeting students, encouraging staff, and building relationships that went far beyond his badge,” she wrote on Facebook.

Metzig added that Siebert had a “remarkable gift” for seeing potential in every student, even when the children couldn’t see it in themselves. 

“He wasn’t just our K9 officer, he was a mentor, a role model, a friend, and a steady, positive presence in our Giants community,” she said. 

“We will miss his smile, his energy, and the way he could light up a room simply by walking into it. Most of all, we will carry forward the kindness, belief, and compassion he showed to every single person he encountered.”

Colleagues at the East Range Police Department remembered Siebert for his cheerful nature. 

“Sgt Siebert was well known for his happy-go-lucky personality,” the department said in a statement. “It was best said that if you couldn’t get along with Cody, it was your fault.”