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A Family Tradition of Service

In southwest Michigan, one family’s dedication to public service stands out – with three relatives serving in three different law enforcement departments across Allegan County.

Tpr. Luke Greydanus with the Wayland Post has the unique opportunity to serve alongside his brother and father, albeit in different uniforms. His brother, Matthew, is a deputy with the Allegan County Sheriff’s Department. And his father, Dave, who retired as an inspector with the MSP in 2015, now serves with the Douglas Police Department.

“After high school, I wasn’t exactly sure what I wanted to do with my life,” said Trooper Greydanus. “I became a gold miner, running heavy equipment in Alaska for two years, but decided I didn’t want to spend my whole life doing that. I decided I wanted to pursue a career in law enforcement, and there was no other agency I could see myself being a part of.”  

Trooper Greydanus joined the MSP in January 2018 as part of the 134th Trooper Recruit School. He was first assigned to the Grand Rapids Post and then transferred to the Wayland Post in early 2025.

The law enforcement profession was not unfamiliar to Trooper Greydanus and his brother when they were kids. Their father, Inspector Greydanus, Ret., included them in the MSP culture at a young age, including being involved in community parades and even learning how to ride their bikes at the Training Academy drive track. 

“I am very proud to see that my sons have chosen a career in law enforcement and that they want to have a positive impact in their communities,” said Inspector Greydanus, Ret. “I thoroughly enjoyed my career as a police officer, and it is exciting to hear their stories and the impact they are having. So many people have told me that they have had contact with either Luke or Matthew and have shared with me what a positive experience it was. That means a lot to me.”       

Three men in uniform standing in front of their patrol vehicles outside

Within the 825.3 square miles of Allegan County, it’s not uncommon for there to be more than one Greydanus arriving on scene.

“While patrolling on the west side of Allegan County my backup is often an Allegan County deputy, which has resulted in Matthew arriving on scene on several occasions,” said Trooper Greydanus. “He is an excellent police officer, and I know if he responds we can handle the situation.”

Deputy Greydanus has been with the Allegan County Sheriff’s Office since January of 2023.

“Being able to work alongside family is a true blessing and not a lot of people have that opportunity,” said Deputy Greydanus.

While each of the Greydanus officers may wear a different uniform, their mission to serve and protect remains the same. 

“I appreciate that although they work for different agencies, they work together to solve problems and address issues,” said Inspector Greydanus, Ret. “By working together and sharing resources great things can be accomplished.”