WEST NEWBURY — Chief Jeffrey Durand and the West Newbury Police Department regret to announce the unexpected passing of retired Sgt. Charles “Chuck” Courtemanche. He was 77.
Sgt. Courtemanche joined the West Newbury Police Department as a Reserve Officer in 1970, becoming a full-time officer in 1985. He served with distinction for 35 years, retiring in 2005.
While with the Department, Sgt. Courtemanche initiated numerous programs. He led efforts toward accreditation, ensuring that West Newbury officers maintained high standards of professionalism and integrity. He also founded the Police Auxiliary program, expanding the Department’s roster with trained special officers.
Sgt. Courtemanche was most proud of founding the Department’s D.A.R.E. (Drug and Alcohol Resistance Education) program, and in helping to educate West Newbury students about the dangers of drug and alcohol use.
He also contributed to his hometown as a longtime member of the Board of Water Commissioners, including serving several terms as the board’s chairman, as a Constable, and as a Field Driver and Fence Viewer. He also worked as an on-call firefighter with the Fire Department, and worked with the Water Department.
“Sgt. Courtemanche truly loved West Newbury and the West Newbury Police Department. Even though he had retired to Florida, he always stayed in touch with what was happening in his hometown,” Chief Durand said. “He made the town a much better place in countless quiet ways. He will be greatly missed, and the West Newbury Police Department extends its condolences to Chuck’s family.”
