Const. Rick O’Brien remembered for fun-loving ways and dedication to community
In a poignant display of camaraderie and sorrow, thousands of mourners gathered at the Langley Events Centre to pay their respects to Constable Rick O'Brien, a dedicated RCMP officer who tragically lost his life while executing a search warrant in Coquitlam, B.C. The regimental funeral, attended by fellow officers, first responders from across North America, and members of the community, was a moving tribute to a man remembered for his humour, compassion, and unwavering commitment to public service.
O'Brien's wife, Nicole Longacre-O'Brien, delivered a heart-wrenching eulogy, expressing gratitude for her late husband's warm and welcoming nature. She revealed their plans for a romantic getaway that was abruptly cut short, saying, "We were jumping on a plane to paradise for 11 days. Here I am instead, sending you off to a different kind of paradise, one that I was never prepared for." Her words touched the hearts of everyone in attendance.
Colleagues and friends shared fond memories of O'Brien, emphasizing his sense of humor and dedication to his responsibilities. Cpl. Pete Westra, who worked closely with O'Brien, recalled how he eagerly took on cases involving vulnerable victims, demonstrating his deep commitment to serving society's less fortunate.
O'Brien's dedication extended beyond his duties, as he frequently visited students and young people to share his vision of law enforcement. "He didn't require a uniform to take on the responsibility of serving his community," remarked Cpl. Dan LeClaire, who was O'Brien's best man at his wedding.
In a lighter moment, some speakers couldn't help but recall O'Brien's fun-loving ways, including his passion for passing gas. Laughter filled the crowd as O'Brien's sibling, Cindy Niezen, shared, "Rick enjoyed cracking them off whenever and wherever. Yeah, I'm going there. I swear, he would intentionally eat spicy foods, as well as dairy products, to enhance the fragrance."
The service, attended by approximately 5,000 people, including local officials and uniformed officers, emphasized the profound loss O'Brien's death represents to the community. "It was too early, and it was senseless. It will be felt by his family, friends, the entire Ridge Meadows detachment, the RCMP, and the countless lives that he touched," said Cpl. Pete Westra. "We can't say enough, but we can say: Well done, Rick. We love you."
Before the funeral, mourners lined the streets of Langley under overcast skies to pay tribute to the fallen officer. A solemn procession of some 3,000 uniformed officers, alongside O'Brien's hearse, made its way to the Langley Events Centre. Many supporters wore red attire, symbolizing their support and respect for the fallen officer.
The funeral service concluded with a performance by the RCMP's "E" Division Pipe Band, a moment of silence, and a benediction by Ridge Meadows RCMP Chaplain Greg Dalman, followed by a final salute. Constable Rick O'Brien's memory will live on in the hearts of those he served and inspired.
