RUMFORD – Police Chief Timothy Bourassa stepped off the elevator late Friday afternoon and into the municipal building auditorium to applause and shouts of “Surprise!”
He appeared to be speechless, rooted to that spot until his wife, Linda, walked up, kissed and hugged him.
Several friends, family, fellow police officers and Rumford and Mexico town officials acknowledged Bourassa during the two-hour retirement party.
Bourassa’s 30-year career as a law enforcement officer is to end on Friday, Dec. 23. Five years were with Mexico. Earlier this fall, he announced his retirement.
“It’s been a good 30 years,” he said after the ceremony. “I have an excellent department, and I’m leaving it in good hands.”
Of retirement, he said, “It’s going to be different. I don’t have to have a pager on and don’t have to have a cell phone or a police radio.”
Following a dinner, Town Manager Steve Eldridge started the awards ceremony, sharing a brief story about why he decided to go to Rumford to become its town manager in January.
“I wanted to come here because of the reputation that the Rumford Police Department has in this state,” he said.
“Departments like that don’t get built unless they have leadership involved, and that leadership has come from this man here,” he said, indicating Bourassa, who stood nearby.
Rumford Selectman Jim Rinaldo then thanked the chief for his longevity – 25 years of service to the police department and community – before presenting Bourassa with a clock plaque.
Uniformed Rumford officers then lined up behind Bourassa, while Detective Lt. Stacy Carter acknowledged the chief.
Carter, who was hired on December 1 as Bourassa’s successor, said he has worked for the Rumford department for 16 years, the last 10 years of which have been while Bourassa was chief.
“I hope to continue the leadership he has presented, into the future,” Carter said before reading from and giving Bourassa a large plaque that recognized him for his professionalism and service.
Visibly moved and at a loss for words, Bourassa thanked Carter, then proceeded to go down the line of 12 officers, shaking the hands of each.
On behalf of the officers, Patrolman James Bernard then presented Bourassa with a L.L. Bean catalog and check, saying, “You’re a great leader and we hate to see you go.”
Wilton police Chief Wayne Gallant, who retired last year from the Rumford department, presented his former police partner with a life membership in the Maine Chiefs of Police Association and a plaque.
On behalf of Carter and Bail Commissioner Bob Grinnell, Gallant then gave Bourassa an orange “Get Out of Jail Free” card, evoking laughter from the crowd and Rumford chief.
“I don’t know what to say. I enjoyed the 30 years I’ve had as a police officer. Thanks,” Bourassa said to everyone.
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