Upper St. Clair's retiring police chief was met with roaring applause Monday night as commissioners honored his 45 years of service with the township.
"You made it one of the safest communities not only in Allegheny County, but in the state," President of the Upper St. Clair Board of Commissioners Bob Orchowski told Ronald Pardini.
Pardini, 75, expressed his appreciation of the board, township Manager Matthew Serakowski and his police officers.
"Over the years, your coworkers become your best friends," he said. "I'm sure going to miss that. And it's going to take a lot of time to get used to that (retiring)."
Pardini announced his retirement to Patch in April. After starting his career with the department as a patrolman in 1967, he quickly climbed the ranks and became chief in 1986.
He will spend time with family and remain active in the community. Pardini also said he hopes to golf, go fly fishing and continue to practice judo in his retirement.
"He always will be in our minds and hearts after all he did for this community," Orchowski said.
Upper St. Clair Deputy Chief Douglas Burkholder took over day-to-day duties on May 1 and will continue to do so until further notice, according to Serakowski.
A representative from state Sen. Matt Smith's office also honored Pardini during Monday's meeting.
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