05/24/2026
It is with heavy hearts that today we said our final goodbye to George “Grandpa” Guise, a true fixture of both the community and the fire department. For more than 75 years of dedicated service, Grandpa represented everything that is good about volunteerism, brotherhood, and selfless public service. His impact on this department and the people of this town will never be forgotten.
Grandpa was more than just a firefighter, he was a mentor, teacher, and role model to generations of members who walked through the firehouse doors. Over the decades, he trained countless firefighters, fostered personal and professional growth, and inspired so many by the way he carried himself every single day. Whether it was sharing knowledge from years of experience, offering guidance to a young member, or simply leading by example, Grandpa always made those around him better.
His presence in the firehouse was constant and comforting. When the new firehouse was built, Grandpa made it very clear that his firehouse would always be the one on Cottage Avenue. He joked that he had no plans on leaving the old place and gave everyone a hard time about “that new building.” But eventually, Grandpa found his way over, and before long it just didn’t feel like the firehouse unless he was sitting there telling stories, keeping an eye on things, and reminding everyone how it used to be done.
Grandpa’s dedication, pride, and love for the department could be seen in everything he did. He showed generations what commitment truly meant and reminded us all that service to others is one of life’s greatest callings. His legacy will continue to live on through the lessons he taught, the traditions he helped build, the stories he told and the many lives he touched throughout his remarkable 75 years of service.
Tonight, we raise a Samuel Adams to you, Grandpa. Thank you for the stories, the laughs, the lessons, and the lifetime of dedication you gave to this department and community. Your watch may be over, but your legacy will forever live within these walls and in the hearts of all those you inspired. Rest easy, Grandpa.
