CZAPNIK, Ireneusz (Eric)
May 26, 1958 - December 29, 2009
CZAPNIK, Ireneusz (Eric)
Devoted and loving husband, father, generous, conscientious and kind man, dedicated Ottawa Police Officer Ireneusz (Eric) Czapnik was taken while on duty in the early hours of the morning on December 29, 2009 leaving behind his family, friends and colleagues. He was much loved and will be greatly missed by us all. Eric is survived by his parents Stanislaw and Jozefa who live in Poland. In Ottawa, he leaves behind his loving wife Anna, with whom he has one young son Anthony and in the Toronto area three children from his first marriage Lukasz, Arthur, and Kasia (Catherine).
Born in Warsaw, Poland, on May 26, 1958, Eric immigrated to Canada in 1990 in the hope of finding a better life and of realizing his dreams in the Western world. He did that by becoming a Police Officer and following in his father's footsteps. Entering the Force at age 48, however, Eric had to work very hard and he put his determination to the test every day to succeed. He became an excellent officer and died having realized his dream of protecting others.
Eric, your determination and hard work makes your family proud. You continue to live in our hearts.
Visitations will be held at the Beechwood National Memorial Centre, 289 Beechwood Avenue on Tuesday, January 5th and Wednesday, January 6, 2010 from 2-4 p.m. and 7-9 p.m. The funeral service will be held at the Ottawa Civic Centre Arena, Lansdowne Park, 1015 Bank St. Ottawa on Thursday, January 7, 2010 at 1:30 PM followed by a reception. A trust fund for the family has been set up at Scotiabank, 118 Sparks Street, Ottawa (613-564-5100) K1P 5B6, Account #400060117811 in trust for Constable Eric Czapnik.
Dear Members,
It is with heavy heart that I write you on this day. The events of this week make no sense. We are left with a void in our hearts and our lives that cannot be filled. A friend, colleague, co-worker, brother was taken from us in a senseless, violent act. We are now left to mourn and grieve together with the community we serve.
In the days, weeks and months ahead I know we will continue to serve this community with dedication, dignity and pride. Stay strong and we will forge ahead with Eric in our hearts and with him watching over our shoulders.
Steve Boucher President, Ottawa Police Association
