WENHAM – Members of the Wenham Police Department are taking part in an extended “No Shave November” this winter in support of the family of one of their own.
While Wenham is one of many departments that typically waives its facial hair policy in November, members are getting an opportunity to wear beards much longer as a show of solidarity with Sgt. Michael Mscisz and his family.
Sgt. Mscisz’s brother, Teddy, passed away in September at age 59 following a battle with cancer.
In his honor, members of the Wenham Police Department are wearing beards during the winter uniform-wearing months of October through April. Additionally, participating officers have donated at least $150 each to Kaplan Family Hospice, where Teddy Mscisz had been receiving care at the end of his life.
“We’re all proud to show our support for Sgt. Mscisz and his family during this difficult time, while honoring the memory of his brother — who many of us had the opportunity to meet and get to know,” Chief Kevin DiNapoli said. “I’m proud of our officers for taking part in this meaningful tribute while giving back to an important organization.”
Mscisz was a lifelong Danvers resident, where he was a member of the high school varsity hockey team and played goalie when the Danvers High School falcons reached the semi-finals at the old Boston Garden. He was also a member of Team USA’s European Cup-winning hockey team in 1981 and the U.S. Junior Olympic Hockey training team.
Later in life, he worked alongside his father, brother, and sons at the family’s excavation business, and is remembered both professionally and personally as someone who put others ahead of himself and as someone who could be relied upon by friends, family, and customers alike.
Mscisz was a devoted, son, father, brother, uncle and grandfather — as well as a lifelong friend to many in his life. He spent time with his loved ones fishing, hunting, walking, and attending car races.
For more information about Teddy Mscisz’s life, click here.