Ontario Battalion Chief Smith passes away

I have some sad news to pass on from the Ontario Fire Department:

The Ontario Fire Department is sadly announcing the passing of Battalion Chief Richard "Chip" Smith.  Chief Smith courageously battled cancer before succumbing to the illness on Sunday, February 21, 2010.  He was 46 years old. 

Chief Smith was hired with the Ontario Fire Department on July 2, 1990.  He steadily moved through the ranks, holding the rank of Firefighter/Paramedic, Fire Captain, Emergency Medical Services Coordinator, Battalion Chief, Fire Marshal, and Deputy Chief of Operations.  Chief Smith was also actively involved with the Ontario Professional Firefighters Association, serving on that group's Executive Board for several years. 

Chief Smith is survived by his wife Amanda, children Colleen, 19, and Shannon, 16, brother Matt, Sister Laura, and mother Virginia. 

Memorial service arrangements are as follows: 

When: Saturday, February 27, 2010 at 2:00pm

• Please arrive early to be seated.