For Gord Molendyk, it was simply time.
The voice and face of the Vernon-North Okanagan RCMP detachment for nearly 10 years has announced his retirement, effective immediately, while on vacation.
“This holiday has made me realize that it is time to hang up my phone and move on,” said Molendyk, 60.
Molendyk spent 40 years combined with the RCMP and with the City of Vernon – the position of RCMP spokesperson for the local detachment is paid for by the city.
He celebrated 40 years of service on Aug. 29.
A native of McBride, Molendyk never left his home province during his career.
His first posting out of depot in Regina was in Richmond, where he spent three years. He then transferred to the Sunshine Coast and spent five years in Gibsons before venturing north for a 15-year stint in Prince George, which included a role as media liaison officer.
Molendyk moved to Vernon in 1998 and became a civilian employee. He took over as RCMP media spokesperson around 2008.
“My job over the years working with all of the media outlets was one of my most challenging yet rewarding jobs that I had,” said Molendyk, who enjoys golfing and hockey in his spare time, along with spending time with his wife, kids and grandchildren.
He said the case that stands out the most during his time in the North Okanagan was the murder of Armstrong teen Taylor Van Diest.
Taking time to enjoy his vacation, Molendyk said he plans to keep busy.
“I’m going to do some other things,” he said, though he kept mum on those plans.
Const. Jocelyn Noseworthy will take on Molendyk’s role in the interim.
“Insp. (Jim) McNamara will be having discussions with the City of Vernon to determine what will happen with the position and how they will fill it,” said Noseworthy. “It is a City of Vernon position.”
