Wellesley Fire Chief Rick DeLorie retired on Thursday, January 5 after 30 years of dedicated service to the Town and its residents. 

Friends, colleagues, and family members gathered to celebrate the outgoing Chief at a retirement party held at WFD headquarters on Route 9. A Wellesley native, Rick began working for the Town as a firefighter in 1993 and rose through the ranks, becoming Chief in 2009 and serving in that role for 14 years.

In a program that was funny and personal, speakers talked about Rick's devotion to duty, his wisdom, sense of humor, and willingness to help the Town and its residents in times of need. 

Board of Health Chair Shep Cohen highlighted Rick's outstanding work to provide masks and personal protective equipment during the COVID-19 pandemic. Wellesley Public Schools Superintendent Dr. David Lussier teased the Chief - a WHS graduate - about his enthusiastic, although not always stellar performance in the annual WEF Spelling Bee, calling  Rick "an extraordinary colleague."  Other remarks focused on the memorable community programs Rick coordinated, including his personal favorite, the Annual Senior Thanksgiving Dinner.

Fellow WFD fire fighters, including the Chief's son Alex DeLorie, talked about the opportunities and education Rick worked hard to provide and the compassion, empathy, integrity, and honesty he brought to his job and the entire department.

Members of the Select Board presented Chief DeLorie with a resolution highlighting his many achievements and thanking him for his dedication to his job and his commitment to our community. 

The Chief,  who is well-known for his lengthy speeches, had the last words, saying he was "honored and very humbled" by the accolades and so grateful to his family, the community, and everyone who supported him throughout the past 30 years.

Congratulations Chief Rick DeLorie - we wish you the very best in retirement!

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