The warm words for Greg Pierzchala matched the warmth of the mid-September sun that blazed down on dozens of people who gathered to rename a Barrie park in memory of the slain Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) officer.
Pierzchala , 28, was a member of the Haldimand OPP detachment when he was shot and killed Dec. 27, 2022 while responding to a report of an overturned vehicle in a ditch near Hagersville.
A man and a woman are charged with first-degree murder in connection with the shooting.
Hours before he was killed, Pierzchala learned he had passed his 10-month probation period having been with the OPP for just over a year.
A memorial was unveiled at the ceremony on Saturday morning as Batteaux Park on Mapleton Avenue was renamed in memory of the officer who attended St. Joan of Arc Catholic High School, across the street from where the dedication took place.
In words spoken about Pierzchala, family, colleagues and friends kept coming back to his motto of challenging oneself to be better.
"Growing up, he was my hero," said his brother, Michal. "He used to do things for me and set an example. I think that's what he's done for other people as well."
OPP Commissioner Thomas Carrique said Pierzchala exemplified the values of the Ontario Provincial Police.
"Our value of serving with pride, professionalism, and honour. He reminds us all that living a life of purpose and doing so passionately has a positive impact on everybody around us. We need to be grateful for the time we've been given and to make the most of that time to ensure we are fulfilling our responsibilities and carrying on the work that Greg started and we need to finish on his behalf."
A new fitness circuit has been installed at the park, inspired by the Ontario Police College fitness test.
"I'll be here often," Pierzchala's brother, Michal, remarked. "Anyone looking to train to get into the Ontario Provincial Police, this kind of equipment is perfect for that."
Barrie Mayor Alex Nuttall echoed those words and reflected on Pierzchala's determination to always be better.
"Keeping fit, and keeping well both physically and mentally, and it's a beautiful way to honour him."
