SWOX District Fire Chief Prepares for Retirement

Wednesday, 11 June 2025 at 06:29

A retirement open house for David Mitchell will be taking place at the Beachville Fire Station this Friday.

SOUTH-WEST OXFORD - A District Fire Chief for South-West Oxford is retiring.

David Mitchell began his firefighting career in 1980 and became the District Chief in 2022. His contributions extend well beyond the fire hall. Chief Mitchell also served 20 years as an Auxiliary OPP retiring as a Staff Sergeant, 16 years as an Associate Professor in both the Fire Science & Industrial Firefighter Program, 15 Years as a HAZMAT technician specialist for TEAM 1, and 30 years at CAMI Automotive in Ingersoll and a Captain on CAMI’s Emergency Response Team.

Mayor David Mayberry shares his thoughts about the service Mitchell gave.

"On behalf of the Council and the people of South West Oxford we offer our heartiest congratulations on District Chief Dave Mitchell’s retirement. Dave has served the Emergency Services of South West Oxford for 45 years with unswerving commitment and conviction. He has given freely of himself to serve the community in often the most challenging and trying of circumstances. We sincerely thank Dave and his family for their devotion to caring for others by so generously giving of themselves. We wish Dave a long and happy retirement after a lifetime of service."

CAO, Mary Ellen Greb mentions what she thinks of the accomplishment.

"District Chief Dave Mitchell's 45 years of service as a volunteer firefighter is an incredible milestone worth celebrating. Congratulations on your retirement Dave and many thanks to you and your family for the sacrifices made to protect our community."

Fire Chief for South-West Oxford Fire & Emergency Services, Shane Caskanette gives his remarks.

"Chief Mitchell exemplifies everything we hope for in a firefighter and leader — steady, committed, and community-minded. For over four decades, he has answered the call without hesitation and led by example. His lifetime of commitment and dedication to public safety with so many organizations is inspirational and speaks to the Chief’s selfless character always putting others before himself. His retirement is well-earned, but his presence will be greatly missed. It has been an honour to serve alongside him."

South-West Oxford Fire and Emergency Services will be hosting a retirement open house on Friday from 2:00 p.m. until 4:00 p.m. at the Beachville Fire Station.