Chief Al LeQuesne Park has opened in Langford in memory of the late former fire chief.
LeQuesne spent much of his life as a firefighter, joining the department in 1952 when he was just 16 and became chief in 1967, retiring in 1996.
During his time, LeQuesne oversaw the purchase of the first set of hydraulic tools (Jaws of Life) in Langford, establishing a third fire hall near Goldstream Park and bringing the 911 system to the community.
His son Dave LeQuesne said the park being dedicated to his father meant so much to his family.
“Our family gave up so much for the community, we were always sharing our dad with with the community, all hours of the night, all holidays and birthdays. You name it, dad was out,” said Dave. “There’d be times he’d be out on Mount Finlayson, packing a hiker out at midnight because they got lost and dad would truck up there and bring them down with the other firefighters. It means quite a bit to our family.”
The park was redesigned by the City of Langford. It features several pieces of equipment that are accessible for children in wheelchairs. Accessibility was an important cause for Al, often making a point of ensuring kids with accessibility issues were included during fire hall open houses or when he would give speeches at school.
“It just showcases dad once more – he helped all those kids and here he is again today helping kids with accessibility issues have fun like others,” said Dave.
A large crowd turned out to pay tribute to Al LeQuesne, including Langford Mayor Scott Goodmanson, former Mayor Stew Young, Langford Fire Chief Chris Aubrey and View Royal Fire Chief Paul Hurst.
“Thank you Al for your service, thank you to the family for allowing Al to serve because it takes the family. The sacrifice of the family is as important as the sacrifice of the firefighter,” said Hurst.
Al LeQuesne died last year in March at the age of 86. Chief Al LeQuesne Park is located at 2980 Humpback Rd.
READ MORE: Local Hero Awards 2022: Al LeQuesne remembered as loving father, husband
@moreton_bailey
bailey.moreton@goldstreamgazette.com
Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter.