Deputy Fire Marshal David Ober celebrated his retirement from the Office of the Fire Marshal on Friday, July 11. Ober served the Town of Newtown for over 24 years between his time at Newtown Hook & Ladder and as Deputy Fire Marshal.

Several members of Newtown Hook & Ladder, First Selectman Jeff Capeci, Economic Community Development Director John Voket, and several other members of Town departments and the local fire companies were there to celebrate with and show support for Ober.

Capeci presented Ober with a proclamation that recognized the latter’s commitment and dedication to the town’s fire safety. It also noted his volunteerism with Hook & Ladder. Capeci asked Ober what has changed in fire protection over the last 25 years, to which Ober responded “a lot.”

“It’s the people that have really changed a lot,” Ober elaborated. “It’s a lot more challenging now than it was before, a lot more regulation now than there was.”

The retiring deputy fire marshal added there are a lot more variables in determining causes of fires.

Handing Ober a navy blue folder trimmed in gold, Capeci said, “I really appreciate, on behalf of all Newtown residents, your service to our town, keeping us safe for so many years … we wish you the best of luck in your retirement.”

Speaking on behalf of the Board of Fire Commissioners, Tim Whelan then said, “Dave, the Board of Fire extends its sincerest gratitude for your dedicated service as our purchasing agent, and Deputy Fire Marshal, and a long time Hook & Ladder member and past chief. Your commitment and contributions have consistently exceeded the expectations of the volunteer fire service, and for that, we are thankful. Good luck in all your future endeavors.”

Ober told those gathered crowd that he appreciates everyone coming out to “make sure [he] actually leave[s].” He said he has made himself available for the next couple of months to help the transition and will continue to volunteer “on a lesser basis.”

As noted in last week’s Newtown Bee, Steven Alesevich and Michael Aurelia have each been sworn in as the Town of Newtown’s newest Deputy Fire Marshals.

Speaking with The Newtown Bee, Ober shared he joined Hook & Ladder in the late 70s because someone impressed him and he “wanted to help.” He also served for four years in United States Air Force before joining Sikorsky’s fire department. He then served the City of Waterbury for 25 years as a firefighter, all while continuing service as a Deputy Fire Marshal for the Town of Newtown.

Firefighting, he said, is more about “the friends that you make and the people you meet.” Ober’s official last day at Newtown Municipal Center will be July 31.

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Reporter Sam Cross can be reached at sam@thebee.com.