SURREY — Family, friends and Surrey Mounties are mourning the death of one of their own after Sergeant Marc Searle died on May 17 at age 47.
A celebration of his life will be held at Peace Portal Alliance Church at 3:30 p.m. Monday, May 30. The public is welcome and donations can be made to the BC Cancer Agency in lieu of flowers.
"A gentle but formidable spirit has been taken too soon," Surrey Mayor Linda Hepner wrote in a post on her Facebook page. "He leaves behind a wife and three children and a bereaved city. Thank you Marc for your service, your constant smile, your indomitable spirit, your dedicated work in the Newton District Office. Our prayers go out to Marc's friends, co-workers and especially to his family."
The South Surrey resident was the first member of the RCMP to be awarded the Minister of Veterans Affairs Commendation for his role in "Operation Remembrance."
He began the project in 2005, aiming to acknowledge Surrey's war vets who were laid to rest in unmarked graves. It culminated in a dedication ceremony at Sunny Side Lawn Cemetery in South Surrey which was presided over by B.C. Lieutenant Governor Iona Campagnolo.
In 2012 Searle was honoured with an RCMP award of meritorious service for his dedication in policing 135A Street in Whalley
He was also recognized for outstanding initiative and creativity for his support of community and Surrey RCMP projects since 2001 and has received other awards for his service with the force.
Searle was a Surrey Mountie for 16 years during which time he wore many hats, serving as a media liaison and Newton's district commander. He also volunteered his time to Surrey Citizenship Court.
tom.zytaruk@thenownewspaper.com