Flags at Town of Tillsonburg facilities have been lowered to half mast in honour of former Fire Chief Terry Saelens.

Saelens passed away on February 14, 2021 at the age of 67.

Chief Saelens started his career in the fire service in 1973 and served the Town of Tillsonburg for 47 years. During that time, he climbed the ranks from firefighter, to captain, to deputy fire chief, and finally acting fire chief. He retired on April 30, 2020.

Terry dedicated his life to saving others, and was active mentoring, teaching and leading the next generation of firefighters throughout his career. The men and women of Tillsonburg Fire & Rescue Services were his second family and brought him much happiness over the years.

Saelens became increasingly involved in training as his career advanced, including leadership in the JTAG training group.

“Terry will be greatly missed in our community,” says Mayor Stephen Molnar. “His steady, calm leadership, kind heart and quiet example were an inspiration to many people both in the fire service and in the broader community.”

Terry was the co-founder of Royal Glass and Mirror and S & S Fire and Hose prior to becoming deputy chief in 2013. His late father, Harry Saelens, served Tillsonburg as chief building inspector from 1973 to 1996.
Ostrander’s Funeral Home Limited has been entrusted with funeral arrangements

Filed under: fire cheif, tillsonburg