Police mourning death of constable

First responders are mourning the loss of a Timmins Police officer. 

Const. Dale MacDonald died May 2 after a brief, courageous battle with cancer, said Timmins Police in a statement. He was 49 and leaves behind a wife and four children.

A second-generation police officer, MacDonald's career with Timmins Police began Aug. 29, 2016, when he was "readily accepted as a platoon officer with a gregarious nature and a solid work ethic."

By going into policing, he followed in the footsteps of his dad — the late Gary MacDonald — who also worked with the Timmins Police Service, mostly as a forensic identification officer.

"Dale was a committed police officer who possessed a strong sense of empathy and patience for persons in crisis," said Timmins Police in a statement.

"Dale will be missed for a large number of reasons, but his concern for the safety of his community and the welfare of fellow police officers was always obvious and unflinching.

"Dale acted as a mentor for younger officers as well as earning the reputation for being reliable and eager to lend assistance, regardless of the circumstance."

Condolences are being shared online from other first responders, including the Timmins Fire Department and its volunteer stations, Cochrane District EMS, and the Timmins Porcupine Search and Rescue.

Flags at the Timmins Police station on Spruce Street South were lowered during a ceremony yesterday evening. A commemorative end-of-watch call was also made for him through dispatch. 

Timmins Police, Cochrane District EMS, the Timmins Fire Department, and OPP drove their vehicles past MacDonald's house, as well.

"He embodied professionalism and community service. His memory will act as a model for others to aspire to in terms of proper conduct, comportment, and a genuine concern for persons in need of help," said police. 

Funeral arrangements are not available yet.