July 21, 2026
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The Village of Ripley saw some illustrious visitors earlier this month, as two Lieutenant Governors of Ontario made the trip to honour sergeant Graham Thorpe, OPP Protective Services Section, manager of the Lieutenant Governor Protection Detail, who retired after 31 years of distinguished service and lives in the village.
Current Lieutenant Governor Edith Dumont and her husband, Tony Viscardi, and former Lieutenant Governor Elizabeth Dowdeswell, were among the crowd at the retirement party, July 4, in Ripley.
Lieutenant Governor of Ontario Edith Dumont (right) presents an award to sergeant Graham Thorpe of Ripley; photos by Anne Marie Robichaud
Their attendance was a testament to the deep respect and admiration they hold for Thorpe, and their heartfelt tributes, personal stories, and the presentation of numerous awards recognizing his outstanding career, made the afternoon especially meaningful.
The celebration, hosted by Thorpe's wife, Pauline, and their son, South Bruce OPP constable Matthew Thorpe, welcomed family, friends, colleagues, and Finlay Street neighbours to the family home. The backyard garden party and buffet provided the perfect setting to honour a remarkable career defined by professionalism, dedication, and service.
As the evening wound down around the backyard bonfire, guests shared more stories, laughter, and congratulations.
Sergeant Graham Thorpe (left) is congratulated by former Lieutenant Governor of Ontario Elizabeth Dowdeswell
One sentiment echoed throughout the day: beyond his distinguished career, Graham Thorpe is simply a genuinely good guy. It was a fitting end to a memorable celebration honouring both his exceptional service and the person so many have come to know and respect.
Celebrating the official retirement, are Lieutenant Governor of Ontario Edith Dumont (second from left) and her husband, Tony Viscardi (left), and sergeant Graham Thorpe and his wife, Pauline; photo courtesy of Anne Marie Robichaud
Sergeant Graham Thorpe (left) and his son, South Bruce OPP constable Matthew Thorpe hold up one of the awards presented at the retirement party in Ripley
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