An impressive display of firefighter camaraderie, respect, and honor occurred Wednesday evening along Highway 4, from the Calaveras County line to Copperopolis.
Fire Engines from Copperopolis Fire, Cal Fire, Sonora Fire, Murphys Fire, Altaville-Melones Fire, Groveland Fire, Miwuk Tribal Fire, Tuolumne County Fire, San Andreas Fire, American Legion Ambulance, and a litany of Chiefs from a multitude of fire departments and districts were all on hand to welcome home one of their own…Chief Dennis Powers. Dennis, diagnosed with cancer, has chosen to spend the remainder of his days with his wife and children, at his family home, in peace.
Dennis joined the Copperopolis Fire Protection District in 1970 as a volunteer firefighter. By the August 20, 1974 board meeting, he was unanimously appointed Chief. His promotion corresponded with the building of a new station, currently station #1 on Main Street. Prior to the building of station #1 Dennis would respond to calls from his home, where his wife Donna would answer the family phone for fire emergencies and then coordinate with other volunteers to get them to the scene. There were no radios back then.
CFPD had purchased a new engine one year prior to promoting Dennis to Chief. Once he became Chief he would drive the engine to his home, continuing to respond from his house until the station to house the new engine was completed.
In 2007, after 33 years as CFPD Chief, Dennis took an early retirement. Dennis is known not only for his creation of a family environment within the department, his love of community, and his fun loving spirit but also for his brilliant yet short lived acting career in the CFPD yearly hilarious melodrama’s directed by Linda Beck.
Welcome home Dennis.
By, Charity Maness
Picture courtesy Nick Maness.
Update:
Dennis Powers passed away peacefully Wednesday evening in his home surrounded by his family and loved ones. His family, at this time, is requesting some time alone.
Rest in Peace Dennis.
The picture says it all. Very moving
ReplyDeleteWhat an incredible picture - it was even more impressive to witness! Copperopolis loves "their" Dennis Powers <3
ReplyDeleteMy prayers go to the family. Love and hugs to you, Cyndie.
ReplyDeleteThe last time I talked to my big brother Denny he was telling me about the last procedure he had gone through. He said "It is just a little hurtle..." I told him " you are amazing you fight cancer like Rambo and you are a man of few words" Denny was a strong warrior he fight hard with the most positive attitude I have ever witnessed and he passed away with dignity.
ReplyDeleteI love you Denny - Love Tammy Knight
All my love and prayers go to all of you. Donna, you & the kids will be in my thoughts and may the angels guide you. Cyndie & Rich and Tam, so sorry for you to loose your brother. What a beautiful picture, it does say it all.
ReplyDeleteDenny, you were a light to all.
Love, Kym Davis
Obviously he was an unsung Hero. I didn't know him but all I have heard indicates that we need more like him in this world. He will be missed even by those who didn't know him. He obviously set a great example of love and committment to his family and community.
ReplyDeleteCyndie,
Our prayers go out to you and yours. Hang in there.