THE BANQUET John Tidridge the author of this page was contacted by Anufy, and asked if would track down 'hard to find members'...this was in February 2009: John Tidridge thought this request strange; he had not finished his Police service but had moved after 18 years, to another city department . However, he found it difficult to refuse his request! (And didn't want to, once the request had been made!)

The thought of trying to find the missing men (Herb Arndt, Harold (Bruce still comes to mind!) Copeland, Jim Coughlan, John Clayton McKee, Glen Pashak, Larry Schonert, Bob Stanton and Don Stalker, was a little daunting. However, the telephone white pages found Stalker! What next: Nick Lees of the Journal!! Nick writes an entertaining column about almost anything including locating lost relatives, colleagues etc. An e-mail and a couple of telephone calls and Nick had his material. The following article appeared in the Edmonton Journal

Edmonton Journal Wednesday February 25, 2009

A former Buckingham Palace sentry and reluctant pig farmer has been assigned to a 50-year-old cold case.

"I was a member of the Edmonton Police Service's graduating class in 1959," says John Tidridge. "We're planning a 50th anniversary reunion and we're looking for seven chaps."

Tidridge has a number of disguises if he has to go undercover. Southampton-born Tidridge served as one of those bearskin-hatted Grenadier Guards spotted outside Buckingham Palace and the Tower of London.

"The Grenadier Guards celebrated their 350th anniversary in 2006," he says. "Battle honours include fighting at Waterloo in the Napoleonic Wars." Tidridge had no sooner completed his National Service when he was recalled and sent in 1956 to Malta, Egypt and Cyprus during the Suez crisis.

"Within three or four weeks of leaving the army in 1957, I married my wife Maureen and left for Canada," he says. "In Edmonton, I went looking for work at the immigration hall and met a farmer from Genesee. He asked if I knew how to pigs and I told him I could probably figure out which end to put the food." He braved the clinging smell of manure for six months before finding work at a fruit-and-vegetable warehouse.

In 1959, he became one of Edmonton's best. But not immediately. "I failed the exam first time. It's not something you'd admit now, but I didn't know whether Quebec was a city or a province." Tidridge served for 18 years, retiring as sergeant. He later worked for the city.

"Some members of our class have kept in touch and we've been able to make contact with others," he says. "But we still need to do some detective work to find seven members of our recruit Class 10."

Missing in action to date are R. Stanton, H. Arndt, J. McKee, G. Pashak, L. Schonert, J. Coughlan and H. Copeland.

"We're making plans for a reunion in September," says Tidridge. "If all goes well, the stories flying around will be so 'formidable that everyone will have to wear a steel helmet."

E-mail: jtidridge@interbaun.com.

Well done, Journal readers

Former Edmonton Police Service sergeant John Tidridge, given the task of tracking down seven members of his graduating class for a 50 year reunion in September, wants to issue an APB. That's an all-points bulletin, if you don't watch police movies.

"We tracked six of the seven class members we hadn't been able to contact, thanks to The Journal running a photo of our 1959 graduating class," says the former British army regular. "Bob Stanton is living in Washington and Larry Schonert and John McKee are living in B.C. Sadly, Jim Coughlan, Herb Arndt and Glen Pashak have all passed." But Tidridge hasn't given up hope of finding Bruce Copeland, last heard of in the Calgary area.

The gathered information was passed to Anufy, who was still at home at this time. So, at this point those accounted for were:439 Rex Moore, (Edmonton area) 440 Don Christoffel,(Edmonton) 441 Jim Dardis, (British Columbia) 443 Nick Kutash, (Edmonton)444 Bob Stanton (Washington state), 445 Don Stalker, (Edmonton) 446 John Tidridge, (Edmonton) 447 Ray Spasiuk,(Edmonton) 448 Sid Gates,(British Columbia) 449 Bob Boyd, (Leduc County)451 Wally Derkatch,(British Columbia) 452 Tony Tywin, (Edmonton)454 Norm. Strause, (Ponoka)455 John McKee, (British Columbia) 459 Larry Schonert, (British Columbia) 460 Larry Jigolyk, (Fort Saskatchewan) and 461 Anufy Semeniuk. (Edmonton)

BOB 449

457 Harold Copeland could not be located.

July 07, 2014: VIVIAN KUCY: In composing the original story of the reunion, Tidridge believed that Vivian Kucy was not a graduating member of Class 10. Our own Holly Miller put him straight so the record is now corrected, sadly:

Vivian Johnson nee Kucy completed Class 10 training and was standing on the sidelines for the pass-out parade because she had an injured arm. Although she attended the graduation dinner she was not part of the Class 10 photograph. Vivian was the secretary in J.I.B. before taking the course-and had possibly expected to remain in that position when she graduated. This was not to be as she was assigned to Morality, which she declined. According to Joan Crawford, a former PW, Vivian who married an RCMP Officer regrettably died at a young age. Holly B, the class's other PW also provided some of this information.

April 8, 2017:  Charles Robert [Bob] BOYD's life was celebrated at the Our Lady of Good Hope Roman Catholic Church.  There were at least four of his Training Class colleagues in attendance: Norm Strause, Rai Spasiuk, Nick Kutash and John Tidridge. There were some 50 members past and present also in attendance. 

Donald Henry Christoffel March 22, 1930 - July 25, 2018

It is with great sadness that the family of Donald Henry Christoffel announce his passing on July 25, 2018 at the age of 88.

Donald is survived by his children, Kim [Ted] Oud, Diane [Mike] Kueber, David [Yvette] Christoffel, 8 grandchildren: Shaw Oud, Allison [Andy] Ciezki, Saira [Luke] Manojlovich, Nat Oud, Tyler and Dillon Kueber, Devon and Landon Kueber, One great grandson, Dekker Manojlovich; as well as numerous relatives and friends.

He was predeceased by his wife of 58 years, Audrey, daughter, Cindy, siblings Gladys [Carl] Percy,  Helen [Ron] Hands.

Edmonton Journal Obit,

Laurence Dennis JIGOLYKY

October 9,1939-Octoboer 18, 2019

It is with great sorrow that we announce the sudden passing of Laurence Jigolyk. Dad is sur-vived and ever loved by his sons, Sean and Patrick and his dau-ghter, Alicia [Jordan] grandson Jesse and his granddaughter, Abby. He will also be deeply missed by his partner of 22 years, Sandra, and her sons Michael and Tyler. and her grandson, Oliver. Laurence will be fondly remembered by his sister Rita [Joe] and their four sons, David, James, Michael and Tim.

He will also be remembered by his cousins, aunts, uncles, friends and previous colleagues and volunteers in his years of service with the EPS, Solicitor General, RCMP Victim Services and the farming community.  

Laurence was predeceased by his father, Harry, mother, Tillie, and ex-wife Patricia.   

Sad news from Bill Artym regarding Rex Moore original number 439, Class 10.

Rex passed yesterday October 26 2020 after a lengthy stay at Leduc Hospital.

Frans van Ooyen> Many of our members had the pleasure of working with Rex. I walked a beat with Rex in the early 80s. He was always welcomed in the many places we stopped. He was an excellent listener, a big man with a very kind heart. He was a self-defence trainer before I joined EPS. Rex represented EPS in an historical uniform for over a decade while escorting Klondike Kate. I know he formed a close bond to many EPS members.

Rex and I were member of Class 10. He was the tallest class member so finished up as our right hand man for drill. He did a commendable job.

Rex was outgoing, gregarious and friendly. He was always willing to help. He will be missed by many,

SPASIUK, Raimon

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of our father, Raimon Spasiuk, on April 15, 2021 at the age of 89.

He is lovingly remembered by his family: children, Diana (Dave) and Greg (Amy); 4 grandchildren: Richard, Ryan, Chris and Rachel; 2 great-grandchildren: Zackery and Justin; and his sister, Helen Shandro; as well as numerous extended family and friends.

Raimon was predeceased by his wife, Hazel; his parents, Harry and Sophie Spasiuk; 2 brothers, William and Metro; and 5 sisters, Anne Osoba, Jennie Kindrakewich, Mary Jorgenson, Selena Powley, and Tillie Spasiuk.

Raimon will be remembered as a loving and respected father who always supported his family. He had a long career as a Constable with the Edmonton Police Service. Raimon was a man of many talents. He built houses and was a skilled woodworker who meticulously crafted fine hardwood furniture and many other items. He was a beekeeper and was especially proud of the extra-large tomatoes he famously grew. He enjoyed vacationing, was an avid and expert fisherman, and in later years enjoyed golfing and travelling with Hazel in their motorhome. Raimon was known to be able to fix anything but will most fondly be remembered as a giving, generous man who was always willing to lend a helping hand to family and friends. He will be greatly missed.

The family wishes to thank the staff at the Norwood Palliative Care for their compassionate care for Raimon.

Cremation has taken place and Raimon will rest at Evergreen Memorial Gardens. A Celebration of Raimon's Life will take place at a later date when we can all gather together.

l to r rear row:John McKee, Wally Derkatch, Rai Spasiuk, John Tidridge, Nick Kutash, Don Stalker, Rex Moore
l to r front row: Bob Stanton, Norm. Strause, Jim Dardis, Bob. Boyd, Larry Schonert. insert Don Christoffel.

l to r rear row: not identified, not identified, Genevieve Kutash, Hazel Spasiuk?, Fay Stalker
l to r front row: Mrs. Strause, Cecille Derkatch, Dorothy Semeniuk, Helen Boyd. Let insert: Audrey Christoffel, Right Cecile Blanchard, Rex M's significant other.

Fancy meeting you here!

Welcomed guest

Recognizing a senior policeman

Larry, S, Nick K, Jim D, Don. S

r. Larry J, Bob. B, John T.
f. Bob. S, Wally Starchuk

Three Amigos?

Preparing a response?

John Mc, Don. C, Rex. M

r. Rai. S, Don. S, Rex. M
f. Nick K. [ladies not identified]

Norm. S and his wife

And further more!

Good listening pose

Rapt attention!

Rexford Roland Moore

Don. S with his wife Fay.

Larry. J, Don. C, Larry. J,

Rose among the .....

Quadruple trouble?

And, yes it really is coffee!

Nick S and his wife, Genevieve

l-r John Mc, Nick K, Larry D, Rex. M

Larry D and Norm. S

Now hear this!

a Grenadier and a Marine

We're ready to go!

Norm. Strause

So who is next?

Norm. S, Larry. J, Larry. S, Larry D.

The members of the class who had in fact finished their allotted time were: 439 Rex Moore, 440 Don Christoffel, 441 Jim Dardis, 443 Nick Kutash, 447 Ray Spasiuk, 448 Sid Gates, 449 Bob Boyd, 454 Norm. Strause and 461 Anufy Semeniuk.

The following left the service to pursue other careers: 444 Bob Stanton, 445 Don Stalker, 446 John Tidridge, 451 Wally Derkatch, 455 John McKee, 459 Larry Schonert, 460 Larry Jigolyk. Seven members of the class were deceased:

442 Mike Semenuk, 450 Danny Moore, 452 Tony Tywin 453 Herb Arndt, 456 Jim Coughlan, 457 Harold Copeland, 458 Glen Pashak and 461 Anufy Semeniuk.

The meal was served on time, the food was both very tasty and in good supply. There was very little left over. The menu for the meal appears to above. Tidridge did find it strange there was an extra charge for the table cloths...reminded him of the time when the late Johnny Cash came to town and asked for table cloths. The late Keith Ashwell of the Edmonton Journal had some caustic remarks to make about that... along the lines of, 'are we country hicks or something'...

So far mention has not been made of the ladies who attended the banquet!

It is hoped the spellings are correct... Cecile and Rex , Audrey and Don, Joyce and Jim, Genevieve and Nick, Fay and Don, Hazel and Ray, Helen and Bob, Marjorie and Norm, Maureen and Clayton. Solo flyers: Bob, John, Larry and Larry! Sid and June Gates unable to make the trip because of Sid's illness. The Gates sent their best wishes.

It is fair to say that, as has already been mentioned, the meal was excellent. There was steady hum of conversation that never lagged. It was obvious this reunion was the right thing to do and later it was decided the class would meet again 5 years time. It was noticed after the meal the men seemed to drift into 'men only' groups. This did not deter the women nor did it cause them to sit silent and watch. They had their own groups going and no one was left on the sidelines. Everyone made the effort to circulate!

Anufy had forewarned the group of the format to follow the dinner...short speeches... he thought each man should prepare a speech of 3 minutes duration... so, in his words, they/we would not brain freeze! The speeches proceeded in an orderly manner starting with Bob S, the class valedictorian, who set the standard by being brief and to the point. He articulated his career from American Marine, Edmonton Police Officer, student pilot to United Air Lines pilot who completed his law degree as well. He ended with a poem. Tidridge was next, filling in, as it were, for Anufy! The rest of the class followed in register number order.

Some had followed Anufy's instructions to prepare ahead, some had not; that did not detract from the heartfelt comments or add to the length of the presentation. It was good to listen to men relate their experiences, some with humour, some with black humour... but none displayed any long lasting bitterness. Some had moved through the last fifty years 'complete and in one piece' others had left 'body parts on operating tables'. Supportive wives and good marriages (and long) were mentioned, separations were covered without being defensive.

There was a 77% class promotion rate... which is not bad by any one's measurement... It was interesting to note that there was no 'trumpet blowing' about 'brave and famous happenings' in their lives...

Just as interesting were the stories of those who had left before completing a required term of service to qualify for a pension. Some avenues were of an entrepreneurial bent, others still in government service, NGO's, some aligned with agriculture. None seemed to have regretted their choices, all were surprised, the author believes, at the reception accorded them. (It is one thing to be retired another to resign... pro-police attitudes have to be re-established. Even Bob S, and Don S, Bob became a lawyer, Don a Firefighter, not professions garnering police support: All was forgiven! It would appear to, that retiring from the Police Service does not mean 'sitting around and getting older(er) was the order of the day. Some of the second careers mentioned included community work, farming, cattle raising, security endeavors. Overall it would appear to be a case of 'jobs well done'.

It was noted with a degree of interest how 'dress' habits have changed over the years. The ladies still dressed up for the occasion, the men, down. Years ago the men would have worn a collar and tie, dress jacket and slacks! Not any more! Three cheers for the changes.. we think.

We asked for but did not receive a letter recognizilng our 50 years service...we did not receive one!

Unfortunately this did not surprise the group meeting for lunch. It is sad but true that the 'working man' never has much time for management or even their own associations, and they are convinced that management etc. does not have much time for the 'working man' and once they are retired that generally is it..out of sight out of mind! The author suggests that, in reality, this is not entirely true...

Mr. & Mrs. Bob Stanton

Mary and Bob at the St. Francis Hotel, San Francisco, USA. October, 2009 Centennial Law School Celebration. while continuing his flying career Bob (444) also managed to become a lawyer. The rest of the class bear him no ill will for this move

August 25, 2011

LOST CLASS MEMBERS

John Tidridge has endeavoured to do three things since the reunion:
1. Get the names of the ladies in the photograph at the dinner. So far limited success: he will continue in his efforts.
2. Locate P.W. Miller: a degree of success here: He located her in Chilliwack B.C. Now married, but so far Holly is not talking to us. Undoubtedly grieved and rightly so, for not being invited to the reunion. Obviously the two main organizers blew it, one cannot and should not be blamed, and that leaves Tidridge! He has apologized and recruited Bob. Stanton to help. Keep an eye open for further news. The sad thing is Holly was easily located, (having received no help from the Delta Police (Jim Cessford) where she was thought to have relocated and working in real estate. All it required, having learned her married name from ex-P.W. Crawford, was to run a 411 on her name and her husband was the third person called. This resulted in long e-mails from Tidridge and a short one from Holly... the name she is known by.
3.Locate H. Copeland. Copeland spent very little time on the force and 'disappeared', we thought to Calgary. Tidridge, in late August, contacted the Calgary Herald and there is some hope they will run a "Wanted" poster.

We shall have to wait and see if there are any further developments on either front.

August 26, 2011

Dear John

Thank you for the great effort you made to contact me, I am pleased to reply to your request.

It's unfortunate that Delta didn't respond to your request. In 1974 when they were hiring their first policewomen, a former ECP officer who was then on the Delta force visited me and asked if I was interested in the job. I had just had my second child I and could not consider the offer.

Some of my history is as follows.

I left the force in Oct of 1963, and moved to Vancouver. Married in 1964 and have three children, Brad, Joy, and Belinda.

The ECP was quite an experience for a 20 year old working in the morality and juvenile divisions. The law at that time required the age of 21 years for me to enter a bar. I had to wait several months before I could do so.

Over the past years I worked in banking, skip tracing (great fun), professional shopping and many years in real estate, plus of course raising three children.

We have been very busy in our retirement years, travelling extensively to many areas of the US (Arizona, California and Florida), throughout the Caribbean, Alaska, Europe, Dubai, Cairo, Hawaii and frequently visiting our grandchildren in Toronto.

In my retirement I enjoy writing poetry, and short children's stories (some of which have been published), also have enjoyed playing bridge for many years.

In December of 2011 we will be celebrating our 47^th wedding anniversary. I am attaching a photo of our 30^th wedding anniversary (because recent photos are not quite as flattering).

Kudos for the great work you have done on bringing all this information together.

Regards,
PW #16

MEMORIAL SERVCE FOR HOLLY BOYSTON nee MILLER PW# 16

SEPTEMBER 14, 2021 CHILLIWACK, BC..

The Memorial for Holly Boyston took place in the Henderson Funeral facility in Chilliwack, BC.

Photo: Left to right. Jim Boyston, husband of Holly, Ken Olgilvie, in the Peace Makers uniform and Patrick Tracy in the Guard of Honour dress uniform of the Edmonton Police Service. Ken and Patrick were the official representatives.

SEPTEMBER 10, 2010

THE SEARCH FOR OUR LAST MEMBER CONTINUES...

September 2011

Dear Chief Constable Knetch:

I am a former member of the Edmonton Police Service and was a member of Training Class #10 that began training September 14, 1959. In September 2009 the 50th Anniversary of the class was celebrated and all but two members of the class, still alive, were contacted and responded to the invitation to attend. Of the two remaining members I have been able to locate and reconnect with one. This leaves but one member MIA, as it were.

S/Major Marr (who has been of great assistance in the past) tells me I have to make a request for information regarding the last member to you personally, as apparently it means unsealing records.

I am hoping these records will provide the full names of a COPELAND, H his date of birth and his last known address. Copeland did not remain with the Edmonton service for very long. Officer Marr says I must maintain confidentiality where that it requested/required and I will do that.

Hoping you can provide me with this information,

I am,

Yours sincerely,

John Tidridge
780-474-1594
jtidridge@interbaun.com

Class Reunion

Three or four days after sending the letter I received a call from Insp. Eastcott who told me that Copeland's name was Harold, (later learned his middle name was Bruce) he was born in 1932 and was from Calgary.. Tidridge contacted the Edmonton Police Association president who gave him his Calgary counterpart's name: That person (John Dooks) is now seeking our MIA member.

SEPTEMBER 19, 2011

11315 60 Street NW
Edmonton, Alberta
T5W 3Z2

September 19, 2011

Hello fellow class members and partners!

Just some updates:

Sid (Gates) is very ill with cancer.

I have located P.W. Miller now BOYSON: see the website at
police05.htm

I am still trying to locate Copeland... if you have any ideas on how to do this please let me know!! I have written to the Chief of Police here in Edmonton in the hopes of getting his first name (we vary from Jim to Howard!), and his last known address.

And, I need to get the names of the ladies in the picture on the reverse side of this... PLEASE write in the names so that I and others will know who is who, and return it to me... it will only cost you an envelope and 57 cents!!) And, if, anyone is missing... Please send your photograph!!

AND... can I persuade each of you to give me your biography of your time on the force, any promotions and what you have done since... it will take you thirty minutes at the most and will prove to be interesting... And, anyway you all owe me!

For you who have computers my address is:jtidridge@interbaun.com
If any of you have acquired computers please forward your e-mail addresses...

Hoping you are as well as can be expected at your ages!!

Let me know if and when you change addresses... our 55^th is not too far away... and ideas for a location and etc. are welcome.

Cheers,
446

LETTERS SENT TO:439, 440, 441, 443, 444, 445, 446, 447, 448 (e-mailed), 449, 451, 454, 455, 459, 460. PW 16

REPLIES RECEIVED:446, 454, 455, PW 16

SEPTEMBER 27, 2011

THE POLICE SERVICE AND AFTERWARDS

OLIVE (Holly) MILLER now BOYSON PW 16

Some of my history is as follows.

I left the force in Oct of 1963, and moved to Vancouver. Married in 1964 and have three children, Brad, Joy, and Belinda.

The ECP was quite an experience for a 20 year old working in the morality and juvenile divisions. The law at that time required the age of 21 years for me to enter a bar. I had to wait several months before I could do so.

Over the past years I worked in banking, skip tracing (great fun), professional shopping and many years in real estate, plus of course raising three children.

We have been very busy in our retirement years, travelling extensively to many areas of the US (Arizona, California and Florida), throughout the Caribbean, Alaska, Europe, Dubai, Cairo, Hawaii and frequently visiting our grandchildren in Toronto.

In my retirement I enjoy writing poetry, and short children's stories (some of which have been published), also have enjoyed playing bridge for many years.

JOHN TIDRIDGE 446

I stayed in the Patrol division until the early 60's and then transferred to Traffic where I spent a very enjoyable ten years. I guess I spent slightly more time working car than I did bike. I worked with some fine people, Insps. Moore and Ward; S/Sgts Pollock, Bryant, Love, Sahlz (?), Sgts. Izatt, Pacholok, Spence, Smith, Monson, Allen, Consts. Topp, Tustin, Flett, Peters, Bawn and many others. It was a good time.

In 1970 Sid Gates pointed out, in the Procedure manual, a position for a constable that was available in the Personnel Section. I applied and was accepted; I was there for two years. Insps. McHarg, Bishop, Shaw and Stevens were always around, as was S/Sgt Ullrich along with Mr. Knull! I quickly learned that the 'third floor' often flew by the seat of their pants... It was one the greatest learning experiences of my life.. not in a million years had I seen myself in an office!

I was promoted to Sgt in July 1972, moving downstairs to Patrol and then later to Londonderry. I was fortunate to have good squads. My memory is going but Adair, Surmon, Murdoch, Sidor, Holowaychuk come to mind. I also assisted the Sgt. Major with the drilling of recruit classes.

By 1977 I was looking for a change; day jobs were scarce so I looked elsewhere. I noticed a position as Security Officer for the planned LRT. I applied and was accepted and left the service in February 1978. Keith Strate left my resignation in his basket for three days before processing... he had called me a rabble rouser in my last assessment and thought I was quitting because of that...I wasn't... I was rather pleased with his perception!

Transit made me feel very much at home, it was an entirely different atmosphere, relaxed and new! I could write a book but wont! Needless to say I have many, many pleasant memories of Transit. During my stay I added the duties of Industrial supervisor to my portfolio. Again, many, many learning experiences. In 1983 I learned of a position vacant in the Bylaw Enforcement Department. I applied and was successful. I started my duties in 1983 and finished my 35 years in 1994. I was blessed with an excellent manager, Bill Williams, a man of integrity who allowed me much rein... which occasionally got me and probably him into the proverbial hot water!

The position was challenging and interesting... I was never bored! Always something new! Some interesting changes occurred... the Bylaw Department become a section of the Finance Department (hey, you have worked for the city!), and my title changed from Director to Senior Supervisor. tough on the ego but did no harm to the pay cheque or the workload!

1994 saw me at the retirement banquet and I was sent off in grand fashion. Now what!

One of my daughters is a legal secretary and she said... well, as a result of what she said I finished up, some 18 months later, and for the next 7 years as an assistant development officer for the County of Leduc. I contracted my services out working initially 3 days a week. again, another huge learning curve. I actually had to put into practise those things I had had my staff doing with the city! It was fun! Really. Part way through, Gadzooks, I had my first woman supervisor... went surprisingly well. People in the country are no different to City folk when it comes to excuses for not doing what they should, or for doing what they should not! Leduc County cover about 120 square miles and at that time no addresses that I as a city dweller understood... all legal descriptions... great sport, gravel roads, empty paved highways, lost, in the ditch in the winter, man, I earned my pay! The people were good to me! I think they treated me as their mascot as I was the oldest by far!

I left in 2002. Since then I have been involved, on occasion, as a volunteer at my local church, the local school, Mustard Seed, and my greatest and continuing delight, as a reporter for our Community League Magazine.

Along the way Maureen my wife, who has stayed with me, we have now 4 married children who have produced 11 grandchildren and 1 great-great grandchild! The Lord is good!

NORM STRAUSE 454

I was in Patrol Div. until about l969 when Bob Tyner , I, and S/Sgt. Carry set up the Crime Prevention Unit which was then attached to CID. I was promoted to Detective in l971 to the Juvenile Section for a year or so then they had reorganization and I went back to Crime Prevention as a Sgt. From there I transferred to the Drug Section as a Det., where I worked for 7 plus years. From there I went to the Arson Unit where I stayed until I retired in 1986. In 1975 during a drug raid I injured my back and after three back surgeries I ended up with a bum leg.

I retired 29 July l986. My wife Marj and I moved to a small ranch 25 miles N.W of Ponoka. There I started out raising Purebred Morgan Horses and in l987 bought my first Texas longhorn cows.

I broke horses for several years until my shoulders got bad. I sold most of the horses. We raised longhorn cattle and sold bulls for a few years then changed over to selling rodeo cattle until 2002 when I sold my herd to a young fellow in Manitoba. During these years I got interested in cattle penning as a sport and for this reason I had to buy more horses. I started buying quarter horse colts and breaking same. I then went riding pasture for several years and broke colts while doing so. I really enjoyed riding pasture. Here I had lots of time to think and work my colts. If something came up where I needed help I carried a cell phone. Sometimes, if I wasn't going to make it home for dinner, I would call and Marj would bring a lunch out and we would have a picnic. I rode anywhere from 4 to 8 hours a day then cattle penned on weekends. Through these years I also rode for neighbors branding in the spring and moving cattle to pasture for the summer. In the fall these cattle had to be gathered and taken home.

I bought a good Border collie stock dog to help me with the cattle. He was well known among the neighbors and once in a while someone would phone and ask if Jack could move some stock and I could come too. If I had a job where I was going to need help I would saddle a horse for Marj. She was a lot of help where we needed two horses. Also I have three granddaughters who love to ride and they would go with me once in a while. The above is the fun things. I had a couple a bad times and got pounded into the ground but we won't go into that.

Marj and I don't go south for the winters. Cold weather does not brother us. I spend a lot of time sitting in front of the fire enjoying same and doing a lot of reading. We usually take a couple of weeks in the spring and drive south - nowhere in particular just get in the car and start driving. We take a different road each year. We drive until time is half gone then turn around and head back on a different road. Most times we drive the back roads.

I have a few physical ailments but no more than other guys my age. I have a few heart problems, have had 4 stents put in the heart in the past 3 years and have chest pains every once in a while. They are not sure what's causing them and the specialist said carry on with what I have been doing, which I am. Also I was diagnosed with diabetes about 12 years ago. I looked after this with diet and exercise until Jan 09. Now I take a pill for it along with heart pills. I am still doing the things I enjoy like breaking and training horses, chasing cows, team cattle penning and cattle sorting. I have to admit that I have slowed down the past 3 years. On my 69^th birthday I had a little discussion with a colt and he won and that's when Marj said, "That's it, no more broncs ." Now I have a young man get on them the first time while I hold them. This works, now everybody is happy.

On the 26 Aug. 11, I was riding for a neighbor when we had a little trouble with a bull and riding got little wild and I started having chest pains. I ended up in the Red Deer hospital on the 30 Aug. 11. On the 2 Sept. 11 I was taken to the RA Hospital for an angiogram. Then back to Red Deer until the 6 Sept. when I was transferred to the Mazankowski Unit U of A Hospital where I had open heart surgery {triple bypass} on the 7 Sept. 11. I was out of there on the 12 Sept. and am now at home recouping. Doctor says I will be back working horses by the middle of Nov.

Thank God for expert Doctors and amazing technology. I hope this is what you were looking John. Keep me posted on the 55.

John McKEE 455

My time on the Force, well not much to tell there. After graduating from the class room I went through the usual stuff and went to traffic last. I was there longer than usual either because there was no space elsewhere or because I was really bad at it, I'm not sure which. I worked with a fellow by the name of Frank Ashworth (Frank died quite young, of I believe, cancer 446) and he seemed to smoke a lot of pencils during my time with him. After that it was the beat for a couple of years.

I was transferred to Traffic Div. and was there until the summer of 1964 when I left for a short period. I was rehired and it was the beat again for a few months and then back to traffic.

I resigned again in 1966 (Feb) to work for the UIC investigating fraudulent claims. Moved to BC in 1968 worked for a box company for about 3 years and then went to the BC Corrections Branch. I retired from the Branch on 02 July 1995 as Director of Operations at Vancouver Pre-trial Centre. I spent a couple years as a Vancouver Police Reserve Constable (1971-1972).

That's about it. Maureen and I made a trans-Canada trip this year (7 Weeks), enjoyed it very much. See you in a couple.

THE POLICE FLYING CLUB

The Police Flying Club was formed in 1960 and believes it is the only flying club made up entirely of police officers. The aircraft cost $6200.00. Left to right in the photograph are Sally Krowchynski, Betty Dennis, Class 10 Member Bob Stanton (flying instructor) and Olga Miller.

JULY 7, 2014: An attempt was made to have a 55 ^th Reunion, but unfortunately only 8 of our remaining 15 members thought they could make the dinner. Regrettably it was decided not to go ahead.

Sometime after the 7^th wiser heads prevailed. Rex and my betting, aided by Cecile, urged that the Anniversary should go ahead. At this point in time 2 letters and many emails have been sent out and as of July 17 it looks as though there will be 16 gathering at the Kingsway Legion now located at 144 Avenue and 50 Street. So far Rex M, Don C, Jim D, Nick K, Bob S, D John T, Norm S, Larry J will make it. Some are bringing their partners.

At the present time the dinner is set one week before the actual date of September 14 to allow more members to attend.

11315 60 Street NW
Edmonton
Alberta.
T5W 3Z2
July 18, 2014

Chief Constable
[Rod Knecht]
City of Edmonton Police Service
Edmonton, Alberta
Canada T5H 0H7

Dear Chief Knetch,

On September 14 1959 Police Recruit Training Class #10 began its 3 month training course. September 14, 2014 will be the 55^th Anniversary of that occasion. The remaining 8 members of the class, who can attend, will sit down to dinner at the Kingsway Legion on September 6, 2014 to mark the occasion.

A brief history of the class:

25 persons [23 males and 2 females} started and finished the course
11 remained with the service
9 class members have died [only 1 while a serving member].

All members of the class have been located but one, Harold Bruce Copeland, who simply has not surfaced.

And, finally, to the purpose of this letter: Would you consider it appropriate to write a letter of congratulations to the class? I’m sure it would be appreciated!

Hoping you can oblige,

Sincerely,
John Tidridge
18 years service.
JT/jt

A similar letter was written to Det. Tony Simioni, President of the Edmonton Police Association. Tony replied, as did the Chief and the Sgts. Mess [unsolicited]

Saturday September 6, 2014 dawned bright and sunny. Tidridge was on hand to greet the first arrivals, Norm and Marge Strause, followed shortly thereafter by the Stalkers, [Don and Fay] and Larry Jigolyk. By 12.20 all those coming were accounted for... Don Christoffel, Rex Moore, Jim Dardis and his wife, Nick and Genevieve Kutash. Bob Stanton was a late cancellation.

It has been decided [by consensus] there would be as few formalities as possible, as a group we remembered those who have died:

We also remembered that Rai Spasiuk and Don Christoffel had lost their wives in the five year period since out last meeting.

Rex gave thanks in a meaningful grace that covered all aspects of our group and genuine thanks for the blessing we have enjoyed over the years. Rex was in turn thanked for the corsages and the shirts. Incidentally, if you still want a shirt they are still available for the cost of postage. Contact Tidridge if you wish to have one.

According to those present the meal was excellent. The meal consisted of 2 types of salads, buns and pickles, roast beef and potatoes, gravy and mixed vegetables. Dessert was in the form of some fancy cakes.

There was a good mix at the 2 tables, so those who came alone were seated with couples... conversation was not confined to 'war stories' [those told were to generate laughs, which they did] but several were heard bragging about their families. It was good to hear.

Of those missing:
Bob Boyd: Health problems
Holly Boyson nee Miller: Unable to make the trip
Wally Derkatch: Travelling
John McKee: Health problems
Larry Schonert: Travel plans conflicted
Rai Spasiuk: Health problems.
Bob Stanton: In Shanghai, a last minute change in plans.

The photo above was taken by Fay Stalker... with her own camera...and if we are not being modest...it turned out well

 The reason we all look rather intense is because we were instructing Fay Stalker on how to take pictures....

You will note we are billed as the R.C.M.P., but I could find no horse soldiers willing to pay the bill.

For those who might be interested in foolish things, we range in age from 75 to a day or two short of 85. No names, no pack drill, you will have to guess!

2006-2015

446 has been in great demand [he writes his own speeches, press releases, amd website entries]. He MCed the Graduation of the Class in 1959, the first reunion in 2009, for the second in 2014.

His skills have and were regonized at the weddings of a granddaughter and her husband in 2006, another granddaughter and her husband in 2015 and at a shower for grandson and his intended the same year.

His trumpeter died recently!!

Nick, as one of the youngest present, promised to remind Tidridge in June of 2019 of the need to start planning......

439 Moore, R

440 Christoffel, D

441 Dardis, J

442 Seminuk, M

443 Kutash, N

444 Stanton, R

445 Stalker, D

446 Tidridge, J

447 Spasiuk, R

448 Gates, S

449 Boyd, R

450 Moore, D

451, Derkatch W

452 Tywin, A

453 Arndt, H

454 Strause, N

455 McKee, J

456 Coughlin, J

457 Copeland, H

458 Pashak, G

459 Schonert, L

460 Jigolyk, L

461 Semeniuk, A

PW 16 Miller O.

PW Kucy, V

439 Moore, R

440 Christoffel, D

441 Dardis, J

442 Seminuk, M

443 Kutash, N

447 Spasiuk, R

448 Gates, S

449 Boyd, R

450 Moore, D

454 Strause, N

461 Semeniuk, A

450 Moore, D

444 Stanton, R

445 Stalker, D

446 Tidridge, J

451 Derkatch W

452 Tywin, A

453 Arndt, H

455 McKee, J

456 Coughlin, J

457 Copeland, H

458 Pashak, G

459 Schonert, L

460 Jigolyk, L

PW 16 Miller, O

PW Kucy, V

439 Moore, R

440 Christoffel, D

442 Seminuk, M

448 Gates, S

449 Boyd, R

450 Moore, D

452 Tywin, A

453 Arndt, H

456 Coughlin, J

458 Pashak, G

461 Semeniuk, A

PW Miller H

PW Kucy, V

457 Copeland, H

439 Moore, R

440 Christoffel, D

441 Dardis, J

443 Kutash, N

444 Stanton, R

445 Stalker, D

446 Tidridge, J

447 Spasiuk, R

449 Boyd, R

451 Derkatch W

454 Strause, N

455 McKee, J

459 Schonert, L

439 Moore, R

440 Christoffel, D

441 Dardis, J

443 Kutash, N

445 Stalker, D

446 Tidridge, J

454 Strause, N

460 Jigolyk, L

60th  ANNIVERSARY RECOGNITION

Formal plans for a formal affair  did not materialize. A couple of attempts to arrange such an occasion did not bring any positve suggestions or volunteers.

A Note of Recognition [below] was sent to class members using email; and also posted on a website at

https://tidridge.github.io/POLICE_Reunions.htm

Larry Schonert felt recognition of those class members who are no longer with us would be appropriate.

December 2020:Hello Class Ten,

The number of remaining members gets smaller each year. We lost Rex.and Holly

It has been a tough year for many, what with Covid-19.

I have spoken with Rai S. He is well and living in an apartment over
looking a lake, here in the city. His phone number remains. Both the
Larrys' from BC have written and they are doing fine.

It would be good to hear from the rest of you!

So, in spite of all the negative things we are still living in the best
country in the world, we have plenty of benefits.

'Keep calm and carry on' and have a good Christmas and a better 2021.

Cheers,

John Tidridge 

 There were but two responses, where do we go from here.

December 2020: Tried to good old telephone! Contacted Don Stalker, Norm Strause, John McKee, Nick Kutash, Robert Stanton.

Working on Dardis.

Email from Larry Schonert regarding future of the group..

Spoke with Jim Boyton and learned of Holly's death in February of this year.

Response to Tidridge'e letter to the Calgary Police Association

September 28, 2021: Harold Bruce Copeland

Hi John,

I got your request from the CPA officer manager. I had a look at the CPS nominal roll that “usually” has all the CPS members on it, even from the 1960s. He is not there. I can send a fan out to our veterans membership and ask if anyone knows him or his whereabouts. Can you tell me if the scuttlebutt says he joined CPS or just moved to Calgary?

All the best,

Mike Turcotte Reg#2067 Retired

President

2nd Floor 3730 Westwinds Drive NE

Calgary AB T2J 5H7

Cell 403-861-2067

Email: turc11@telus.net

Website: www.calgarypolicevets.ab.ca

SEPTEMBER 28, 2021 FROM JOHN TIDRIDGE

Hello Mike,

Thank you for your quick reply! And, thanks for your efforts to locate the elusive Mr. Copeland.

He was thought to have moved to Calgary, would be the way to describe the situation.

For your eyes only: Bruce was  not long out of training and was assigned to a beat, 1st. Watch. He was found, on an inspection, to be intoxicated.  The thought was he might head to Calgary.

At the time Edmonton was unofficially considered the Police Training School for Western Canada.

Mike, thanks again!

An aside: when I was arranging the classes' 50th anniversary dinner, a local reporter ran a very good article and it produced two opf our MIA's.

Bruce would be 89 ish!

John T