Retired officer coming home

INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) - A retired Indianapolis police officer battling a terminal illness will soon be back home with his wife and family.

It will take a team of volunteers to get 67-year-old Frank Wefler home to Indianapolis from Las Vegas. Frank and his wife Carol moved to Vegas five years ago after retiring.

The couple planned to grow old in the fast city but tragedy hit.

“Nine weeks ago (dad) had two heart attacks and three strokes within days apart,” Todd Pershing said.

During Frank Wefler’s recovery, his wife was diagnosed with stage four cancer. She returned to Indianapolis for treatment. Her three children have cared for her.

Now, Pershing hopes his parents will be reunited before it's too late.

“There is a certain comfort that we as kids can give our parents,” he said fighting tears, “There is nothing like the comfort husband and wife can give each other.”

When the Fraternal Order of Police found out about their dilemma they issued a plea for help. And dozens responded.

Sunday, the Grace on Wings crew will transport Wefler from Vegas to Indy. Many have contributed to help cover the expense.

Pershing says so many people donated, the family will have left over funds. He plans to set up a fund to help other retired IMPD officers dealing with similar situations.

The family will celebrate Thanksgiving on Sunday.