The County of Renfrew Paramedic Service recently recognized members for long service and exemplary service. Taking part in the ceremony at the County of Renfrew Administration Building were (front from left) Mathieu Grenier, Ashley Dayment, Cheryl Ponsen, Warden Jennifer Murphy, John Greene, Kody Koepsel, Dave Libby, (second row from left) Shawn Doyle, Stephanie Rose, Stuart Theron, Matt Rousselle and (back row from left) Steve Osipenko, Deputy Chief Nick LeRiche, Daryl McLoughlin, Chief Michael Nolan, Brent Daechsel, Health Committee Chair Michael Donohue, Chief Administrative Officer Craig Kelley, Commander Derek Loach, Robert Blackwell, Administrative Commander Jaclyn Bentley and Commander Brady Loback. County of Renfrew photo
Renfrew County Paramedics are celebrating a proud moment for many of their longest serving members.
The county’s paramedic service held a recent ceremony to acknowledge the recipients of their Long Service and Exemplary Service medals, which recognize paramedic careers marked by exceptional leadership, outstanding patient care, and an unwavering commitment to the communities they serve.
Recipients were honoured for reaching significant service milestones of 12, 22, and 32 years, as well as for exemplary contributions that have strengthened and enhanced care for residents and visitors across Renfrew County.
“Every medal presented today reflects countless calls answered, lives impacted, families comforted, and communities supported during some of life’s most challenging moments,” says County Warden Jennifer Murphy. “The dedication of these individuals has helped make Renfrew County a safer, healthier, and stronger place to live.”
County officials note that paramedics play a critical role in the local healthcare and emergency response system, providing skilled medical care, sound judgement, and reassurance when every second matters.
County of Renfrew Paramedic Service Chief Michael Nolan is proud of the dedication and accomplishments recognized through the awards, calling the contributions of the recipients “a testament to the strength, compassion, and professionalism of our Paramedic Service.”
The following Paramedics were recognized for their years of service:
- 12 Years of Service: Megan Climenhage, Matt Cruchet, Chris Day, Ashley Dayment, Shawn Doyle, Brandon Dombroski, Alex Faucon, Matthew Hamilton, Kody Koepsel, Dave Libby, Brittany McBride, Mich McKenzie, Ben Pillion, Cheryl Ponsen, Stephanie Rose, Matt Rousselle, Andrew Sutherland, Stuart Theron, and Krista-Lee Thompson.
- 22 Years of Service: Julie Belbeck, Mathieu Grenier, John Greene, Heather Lavigne, Sean Plunkett, and David Rowe.
- 32 Years of Service: Robert Blackwell, Brent Daechsel, and Daryl McLoughlin.
The County also formally recognized Steve Osipenko for receiving Exemplary Service Medal from the Ontario Association of Paramedic Chiefs last year, as well as the retirement of Robert Blackwell following 33 years of service.
(written by Kasey Egan)
