Former Police Chief Donald Campbell Passes Away

On 05/07/2023 at 938pm at Troy Beaumont Hospital, Donald Campbell, Chief of Police (Ret), passed away after suffering from a long-term illness.  Chief Campbell was the second chief of police in Shelby Township’s 69-year history.  Chief Campbell served with honor from 1968 to 1995 and was chief of police from 1987 to his retirement in 1995.  He was a resident of Shelby Township and is survived by his only daughter, Samantha. 

During his tenure and through the rest of his life, Chief Campbell was greatly respected by the men and women that he served with.  In the summer of 2021, I was informed that Chief Campbell was very sick and that his days were mostly numbered.  Danny Hall, police lieutenant (ret.) reached out to me personally and asked if the department could do something special for Chief Campbell.  It was with great honor and pride that we invited Chief Campbell to our building that he had never seen (built in 2012 and updated in 2018).  We also invited all the Shelby Township Police Department retirees to attend.  The turnout was tremendous and when Chief Campbell addressed his former colleagues, he spoke with authority and confidence.  Ultimately, he took zero credit and gave all credit to the men and women that he served with.  Our building was packed with retirees.  Many had never come around since their retirement, but they came to see their retired chief and pay respect.  On that summer day in 2021, I have never been prouder to be a part of this department, specifically, interlocked with the men and women who have served this incredible community. 

Chief Campbell will always be remembered.  His bench sits in our “Hall of Heroes” with his name engraved and his years of service.  His picture is in our lobby and will remain as long as this building stands.  Arrangements are not public.  Please keep Chief Campbell and his daughter in your prayers.  He was a great man. 

Sincerely,

Robert Shelide

Chief of Police