LANGLEY — The Langley Police Department is mourning the loss of one of its own.

Officer Michael Andrew Birchfield, 48, passed away Wednesday after a protracted bout of pneumonia.

“He was a very dedicated officer who really cared about people,” said Langley Police Chief Bob Herzberg.

“Police work is social work and he cared about the people he served. He wanted to do the best by them. We are saddened that his life was cut short,” Herzberg said.

Birchfield joined the Langley department after a life of public service.

Born Sept. 5, 1958 and raised in South Bend, Ind., Birchfield joined the Navy and served for seven years.

Birchfield pursued a career in law enforcement and got his start in Langley in January 1990. He was a full-time officer in Langley until October 1993.

He was then hired by the Island County Sheriff’s Office where he worked as a deputy and detective.

Birchfield returned to the Langley Police Department in April 2006.

Langley Mayor Neil Colburn extended his condolences to Birchfield’s family.

“Losing Mike Birchfield is almost personal to me. He began his career in this community. He raised his family right around the corner from where I lived. His kids went to school with my kids,” Colburn said.

“He’ll be sorely missed as a community member and police officer,” Colburn said.

A memorial service is set for 3 p.m. Tuesday at St. Hubert Catholic Church in Langley.

Birchfield’s colleagues have planned a police procession and motorcade from Freeland to Langley to start around

1:45 p.m. It will end on First Street. The procession honors his first and final service as a Langley police officer and as a deputy with the Island County Sheriff’s Office.

Minor traffic disruptions on Highway 525 should be expected during the procession.

The loss of Birchfield will impact the Langley Police Department, as he was one of four officers serving the department.

Spencer Webster can be reached at 221-5300 or swebster@southwhidbeyrecord.com.