09/07/2026
Gander Fire Rescue would like to pass on the sad news of the passing of a former Fire Chief, Noel Rideout.
Noel Rideout was a founding member of Gander Fire Rescue in 1968, when it was called Gander Volunteer Fire Brigade. He was a dedicated firefighter and officer. He saw many changes and events in those years, including the Arrow Air Disaster in 1985.
He worked his way up through the ranks and became Fire Chief in 1986.
Chief Rideout spent 17 years as Fire Chief before retiring into a dispatcher position for 5 years.
In total, Chief Rideout spent 40 years contributing to the fire service, the mutual aid partnership of central Newfoundland, the reputation of Gander Fire Rescue, the training, the firefighters, and of course the community.
Our department humbly offers condolences to Chief Rideout’s family and friends for a member of our department that has left a lasting impact on people he worked with and those who have met him since.
Thank you, Chief, for your dedication to the fire service and to our department.
