CLIFFORD – Local firefighters lined up on Dec. 28 to march into the Clifford arena for a memorial service for long-time local firefighter and paramedic Dean Wick.
He was a firefighter with Palmerston and Town of Minto fire services for over 45 years and a paramedic with Guelph Wellington Paramedic Services and Region of Waterloo Paramedic Services for more than 40 years.
The memorial service was attended by over 300 community members and a similar number of firefighters and paramedics from throughout the region.
During the celebration of life, friends and family members, as well as emergency responders, shared stories from his years of service.
Wick, who received a 40-year Governor General Emergency Medical Services Exemplary Service Medal in 2024, also trained many of the region’s paramedics through his role as an instructor with Conestoga College.
A lifelong Palmerston resident, Wick is survived by his wife, Kate, their children Carly and Jesse, and two grandchildren.
Son of the late Don and Norrie Wick, Dean was brother to Dan and Julie Wick, Dale and Catherine Wick, Darcy and Sharon Wick, Kim and Tim Williamson and stepson of Willa Wick.
A statement from Minto Fire following Wick’s death on Dec. 18 noted he was an “extraordinary leader … a mentor, a friend and a true hero to us all … Dean will leave a legacy of integrity and selflessness.
“He always led by example, putting others first and fostering a spirit of camaraderie.
“His wisdom and guidance helped shape the careers of countless firefighters and paramedics.”
