Ride to Pier: In Memory of Pier-Mark “Pete” Bourassa Hains

On August 9, we’ll ride from CFB Edmonton to Wabamun Pier — joined by service members, first responders, veterans, civilians, and supporters — to honor a friend, a brother-in-arms, and a fellow soldier: Pier-Mark “Pete” Bourassa Hains.

On the weekend of April 26, we lost Pete — someone who was kind, loyal, courageous, and always ready with a joke. He served our country with pride and brought laughter wherever he went. On the Thursday before he passed, he messaged me to go for a ride that weekend. I didn’t respond right away — not because I didn’t want to go, but because my bike wasn’t ready. I thought I’d message him later or catch him at work. I figured we’d have plenty of time to ride together this summer.

I never got the chance.

His absence has left a hole in our unit, in our community, and in our hearts.

Ride to Pier is our way of turning grief into action — to honor Pete’s memory, raise awareness for mental health, and create a space for connection, healing, and hope. This ride is about ensuring no one feels alone in their struggle.

We’re holding the event in August to allow time for fellow CAF members to return from deployment and to accommodate the realities of operational tempo. We want to make space for everyone who wishes to take part — to come together in strength, remembrance, and unity.

We’re inviting everyone — service members, first responders, veterans, and civilians — to join us, support one another, and carry Pete’s legacy forward. Whether or not you wear a uniform, you’re welcome to ride with us. This is a shared moment, during National Wellness Month, to connect through a meaningful cause — and to carry Pete’s spirit with us every kilometer of the way.

This ride is for Pete.

This ride is for all of us.

What Your Donation Supports

• Immediate support for Pete’s family – to help cover urgent travel costs so they can fly to Edmonton, collect his belongings, and connect with the people and places that shaped his final chapter.

• Dignity and closure – allowing Pete’s loved ones to see where he worked, meet his friends and comrades, and say a proper goodbye surrounded by his military family.

• A legacy fund for Pete’s family – to support them as they navigate unimaginable loss.

Ride with us.

Share this story.

Support the cause.

People who don't ride can come as well in their car — all are welcome.

Thank you for helping us make something meaningful out of something heartbreaking.

— Javier Cruz

Organizer, Ride to Pier