Remembering Tampa Police Officer David Curtis

TAMPA - Tampa police officer David Curtis, 31, joined the department in October, 2006. Prior to that, Curtis was a jail deputy for the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office.

Along with Tampa Police officer Jeff Kocab , David Curtis was shot and killed on Tuesday morning after a routine traffic stop .

At a press conference to remember the slain police, Officer Jeremy Larsen said Curtis always "brought a smile to fellow officers' faces, and that he had a good sense of humor," mainly with stories of his children's adventures.

Officer Curtis left behind his wife of 10 years, Kelly, and was hailed by Police Chief Jane Castor as a dedicated father to his four sons: 8-month-old Hunter, 5-year-old-Tyler, 6-year-old Sean, and 9-year-old Austin.

Larsen recalled stories of Curtis' kids exploring his property, and bringing home their finds. One time one of the boys showed up with a two-foot snake. Another story tells of Curtis opening the freezer to find a tarantula.

Over and over, colleagues mentioned his dedication. In addition to being dedicated to his wife and four boys, Larsen said that Curtis was "a public servant, with a servant's heart," committed to his job, and to his community.

Curtis was so dedicated to the police force that he went to Washington, DC as a member of the honor guard to attend the National Law Enforcement Memorial Service in April.

After only one year as an officer, Curtis served on the plainclothes Rapid Offender Control Squad, known as ROC, before being selected to be on Community Officer Patrol, usually reserved for officers with longer tenure.

Curtis was serving in uniform patrol squad 306 at the time of the shooting.

Tampa Police said his family will be donating his organs.

Information provided by the Tampa Police Department.

For complete coverage, see the ABC Action News.com special report: Tampa Police Tragedy .