Public Memorial Recognizes Legacy of Late Police Chief

Mayor Jon Mitchell and the City of New Bedford hosted a public memorial in honor of fallen New Bedford Police Chief David Provencher Sunday morning at the Zeiterion Performing Arts Center.

In front of a crowd of over one humdred attendees, Mitchell acknowledged Provencher's dedication to serving the city over his 35 years on the department.

When his contract was recently set to expire, the mayor said Provencher could have stepped down due to physical disabilities, but he chose to stick it out with the goal of making the city a better place.

"He told me he was in it for the long run so that the department could become the very best," Mitchell said during his remarks. "For him it was all about making New Bedford a better place. It was all about serving others."

The mayor was joined by several other speakers that shared stories about the professional and personal life of the late chief.

Matthew Provencher, the chief's oldest son, offered a glimpse into the chief's personal life and was convinced his father's memory would live on through the city.

"I believe, more than ever, that we will not miss my father," said Matthew. "Instead, we have, in this room and throughout this city, people who will continue to carry on his memory and create a legacy that will sustain his life."

Former mayor and local attorney Scott Lang appointed Provencher as chief in 2011. He reflected on provencher's tendency to always see the good in people and to live each day to the fullest.

Lang also touched on the chief's sense of humor that was always in good taste.

"His humor was an acquired taste," Lang said. "Dry as a pillow full of feathers."

Deputy Police Chief David Lizotte spoke about his time working alongside the chief and how he always managed to slow things down so the two could carefully analyze all types of situations.

Chief Provencher was laid to rest Saturday after succumbing to respiratory arrest last week at the age of 59.