DCNR: Upper Dauphin fire chief dies at wildland fire academy
David Warfel was Forest District Maintenance Supervisor at Weiser State Forest and was attending training at the Wildland Fire Academy at Shippensburg University at the time of his passing. He had spent the day instructing and mentoring wildland firefighters.
The Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) was holding the training.
'We are deeply saddened by the passing of Dave Warfel, whose dedication to public service was unwavering throughout his life,' DCNR Secretary Cindy Adams Dunn said in a statement. 'Beginning as a volunteer firefighter at a young age, his commitment to protecting communities and our natural resources never wavered. He was a respected and invaluable leader within the wildland firefighting community and made lasting contributions to DCNR through his expertise, professionalism, and leadership.'
Warfel was chief at the Carsonville Fire Company in upper Dauphin County.
The fire company described him as 'always a cheerful, musical, funny guy.
'You couldn't make it through an event without him singing a little at some point,' the company said. 'A great man and staple of the community has been lost but will always be remembered.'
He had been in the fire service since his teenage years with various companies in the Halifax and Carsonville area.
'Beyond his professional accomplishments, Dave was a cherished colleague and friend,' Adams Dunn added. 'His camaraderie, integrity, and kindness enriched the lives of all who had the privilege to work alongside him. The entire DCNR family mourns this tremendous loss and extends heartfelt condolences to his family and loved ones.'
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DCNR says the manner of death will be determined by the Cumberland County Coroner's Office.
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