The family of Douglas Larche, one of the three RCMP constables killed in last week's shooting in New Brunswick, is thanking Canadians for supporting them during their time of grief.
Const. Douglas James Larche, 40, was shot and killed last week by a gunman in Moncton, N.B. Const. Dave Ross, 32, and Const. Fabrice Georges Gevaudan, 45, were also killed in the attack.
Larche's wife, Nadine, issued a statement Sunday morning to thank Canadians for their support. She remembered her husband as a devoted father and committed police constable.
"First and foremost, Doug lived for his family. His three daughters, aged 4, 8 and 9, were his little princesses, his most precious treasures," she said in the statement.
"He was an extraordinary father and husband, loyal and completely selfless. He enjoyed doing presentations at his daughters' school and daycare in uniform and with a police car."
She also recalled her husband's bravery.
"While everyone ran away and hid from danger, Doug ran towards danger without hesitation and gave his life to protect our community," she said.
In the statement, she noted some of the highlights from his 12-year career with the RCMP, including receiving a Commander's Commendation for saving the life of an unconscious baby in 2008.
It was this passion he had for his job that must be remembered, she added.
"Honouring Doug's memory is a celebration of life. We must not let fear dictate our future; Doug worked every day for a safer and better world for all of us," she said.
"He was the best person I knew. I had and still have the utmost love and admiration for him. Let us honour his memory and that of his deceased colleagues so that our daughters and all of the other affected children know that their fathers were heroes."
The officers will be remembered at a regimental funeral service on Tuesday at the Moncton Coliseum. Police officers from across the country are expected to attend.
