08/20/2025
Honoring a True Hometown Hero
After 30 years of dedicated service, our beloved Fire Captain, veteran, engineer, EMT, and mentor Dave Bigelow is hanging up his helmet and retiring from the Paradise Fire Department.
He served our country with honor, and then came home and spent the last three decades serving our community with that same unwavering commitment.
From fighting fires to saving lives as an EMT, he holds an impressive list of certifications but more than that, he holds the respect and gratitude of everyone who’s had the privilege to work alongside him.
He’s been the first to volunteer, the last to ask for help, and the kind of leader who quietly shapes others into something better. He’s taught each of us more than a thing or two. He’s raised up our current Chief, Assistant Chief, and all of our Captains leading today.
Now it’s our turn to say thank you.
Please join us this Saturday at the Trout and Berry Day Breakfast as we honor this incredible man. A tribute video will be playing during breakfast, and we’ll present a special gift at the end of the meal. He’ll also be riding on Engine 90 in the parade where he belongs, surrounded by the community he’s protected for so many years
Come out, celebrate, and help us give thanks to a true hometown hero. ❤️🚒🇺🇸