Upper St. Clair Police Chief Retiring After 45 Years With Department

After more than 45 years with the Upper St. Clair Police Department, Chief Ronald Pardini is retiring.

The 75 year old's last day on duty will be April 30.

"At this point in my life, it's time to move one and hand over the reigns," he said.

Pardini started his career with the department as a patrolman in 1967.

In 1975, he was named sergeant. Then in 1976, he was promoted to lieutenant. Just six months later, he became deputy chief.

Then, in 1986, Pardini became chief, a job he has kept for 27 years.

"It's been a very rewarding experience. I'll miss it. The township has always been first class," he said. "I'll miss interacting with all the people here. I've spent my whole life here. It's been a wonderful place to work."

"He's given his life to this township," Upper St. Clair Township Manager Matthew Serakowski said. "He has had an exemplary career.

"You want to talk about someone dedicated to his community? He's (Pardini) it."

While reflecting about his many memories as chief, Pardini couldn't stop speaking highly of his officers.

"Watching everyone develop and become a professional, we have a bunch of terrific officers," he said. "Everyone has their bachelor's degree and has been trained and trained. And then trained again."

Pardini said he's going to miss the commraderie.

"These men are really here to serve the community," he said.

Although he's retiring, Pardini said he plans to remain active in the community and stay in the Upper St. Clair home that he built in the 70s.

"I'm going to take some time to relax," he said. "I'm an avid fly fisherman. I play golf. I still participate in judo."

But, most importantly, Pardini will spend more time with his family—especially his wife.

He also said he's looking forward to having the time to visit his youngest son in Maryland and his sister in Florida.

Pardini also joked he'll be able to read some books that he's always wanted to read.

And it was something he read in a book as a patrolman, he said, that has really helped him.

"I read that you should surround yourself with good people, and that's exactly what I did. All of the officers have always made me look good," he said. "It's hard to let go, that's why I stayed so long."

Starting May 1, Upper St. Clair Deputy Chief Douglas Burkholder will take over day-to-day duties until further notice, according to Serakowski.

"In the coming weeks and months, we'll begin to explore where to go to with the next chief," Serakowski said.

"He's an outstanding guy," Pardini said about Burkholder. "Very well educated and just a great guy."