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Andy Macintosh to retire as Orangeville’s fire chief

February 4, 2016   ·   0 Comments

In just a few short weeks, the Orangeville community will bid farewell to a local serviceman who has not only set an incredible example in his job over the years, but also become recognized for keeping safety as a number one local priority throughout his career.

Fire Chief Andy MacIntosh has announced that he will be retiring at the end of this month. On Monday evening, the Town sent out a press release announcing that Chief MacIntosh had tendered his resignation, effective February 29, 2016. His retirement marks the end of a 29-year career with the Orangeville Fire Department.

“I’m grateful for the opportunity to have worked for Orangeville and I appreciate the support I  have had from many Councils over the years,” said Chief Macintosh. “It’s been a great  opportunity to have been part of the growth and evolution of the Orangeville Fire Department. I  am particularly thankful for the help and support that I’ve had from staff and peers.”

After first joining the fire department as a volunteer in January 1987, he moved into a full-time position in September 1992 as Fire Prevention Inspector, while still serving as a Volunteer Firefighter. In 1995, he was appointed Deputy Fire Chief, and four years later received the designation of Acting Fire Chief. He was officially appointed as Fire Chief on January 25, 2000.

Now, after 29 years with the force, he has emerged as well-respected for both his performance and commitment to the Town, and the level of services provided by his department. In the press release announcing his departure, Chief MacIntosh was described as ‘committed, caring, and thorough’, having earned much respect throughout the years.

“It has been my honour to work with Chief Andy Macintosh and the Orangeville firefighters during my entire time on Council,” said Councillor Gail Campbell. “I want to thank Andy for his leadership in helping the Orangeville Fire Service develop into the first-class, professional organization it is today. Our community is fortunate to have such excellent fire protection. Thank you, Andy, for your dedication. I wish you happiness and good health in your retirement.”

Throughout Chief MacIntosh’s tenure and leadership, the Orangeville Fire Department officially became a composite department in 2003, employing both full-time and volunteer firefighters. This created a significant change for the department.

His record continued to grow over the years, seeing him bestowed with the honour of the national Fire Services Exemplary Service medal in 2007, which recognizes 20 years of loyal and exemplary service for public security in Canada. In 2012, he also received the provincial Fire Services Long Service Medal, marking 25 years of service, the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee and Queen’s Golden Jubilee medals, as well as a 25-year service award from the Town of Orangeville.

The Chief and his wife, Kathie, have resided in Orangeville for nearly 50 years, becoming an integral part of the community through his involvement. According to the Town’s press release, his future will include establishing some new daily routines like golfing and camping in the warmer seasons – a pretty decent way to spend retirement.

And while Chief MacIntosh will be walking away with plenty of memories of the changes, successes, and time at the Orangeville Fire Department, there are many who will retain memories of all that he has done for the Town, its residents, and the community.

“Andy has served our Town for decades with bravery, and a steadfast resolve for the welfare of our citizens,” Mayor Jeremy  Williams. “With an unwavering commitment to his firefighting team and those they protect, Andy has been uncompromising in his years of dedication. Orangeville owes an enormous debt of gratitude to him and he will always be ‘Chief Macintosh’ to me.”

By Tabitha Wells

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