Station rededication salutes a century-long legacy of fire service

October 1, 2026 · 0 Comments

A century-long legacy to local fire service was celebrated Thursday afternoon when the Towns of Aurora and Newmarket came together to rededicate the Edward Street fire station in honour of Stewart G. Patrick.

The Stewart G. Patrick Fire Station was dedicated September 25 at a special ceremony attended by generations of the Patrick family, some of whom share their patriarch’s dedication to emergency services.

Patrick was born in 1908 and began his career in fire services by signing up for the Aurora Volunteer Fire Brigade on January 14, 1924, eventually joining as a full-fledged member in 1926.

“Throughout his career, known affectionately as ‘Stew,’ he advanced through the ranks of the fire service, earning the respect of his colleagues and the community,” said Central York Fire Services (CYFS), the crew that serves both Aurora and Newmarket. “In 1950, he was elected Deputy Fire Chief by members of the Brigade, a position he held until his retirement in 1973, after nearly five decades of dedicated service.

“Following his retirement, his son, Donald Patrick, continued in the family’s legacy by succeeding him as Deputy Fire Chief. Stew was also a successful local businessman. He owned and operated Aurora Meat Market and later the Glendale Pavilion on Musselman’s Lake, both of which became well-known establishments.

“Stew’s dedication to public service extended beyond the fire department. During the 1960s, he served on Aurora Town Council, first as Deputy Reeve and later as Reeve of the Town of Aurora. His commitment to civic leadership also led him to serve on York County Council, where he represented the interests of Aurora and its residents.”

CYFS said Patrick left a “legacy of leadership, service, and community dedication” that continues to be “remembered and celebrated.”

Present CYFS leader Chief Rocco Volpe underscored this point, noting Patrick’s influence extends far beyond his years of service.

“His unwavering dedication to public safety, commitment to his community, and passion for protecting others have left a lasting impact on those who had the privilege of working alongside him,” said Volpe. “His leadership, professionalism, and service set a standard of excellence that continues to guide and advance new generations of firefighters.”

This enduring legacy was also touched upon by Newmarket-Aurora MPP Dawn Gallagher Murphy and Mayor Tom Mrakas, who were joined in the ceremony by Newmarket Councillor Kelly Broome, former Aurora mayor Tim Jones, and more.

MPP Gallagher Murphy said his dedication to both fire service and civic leadership speaks volumes about what it means to be a firefighter.

“It is not simply about responding to a call. It is about giving your time, your energy, and often making personal sacrifices to be there for your community. It is a commitment that can last a lifetime,” she said. “And behind every firefighter is a family making sacrifices, too. Families share their loved ones with us — they share the evenings, the weekends, the holidays, and sometimes the worry that comes with the job. Their support is an important part of every firefighter’s ability to serve.

“That is why a moment like today is so meaningful. Naming this station in Stew Patrick’s honour recognizes the individual, but it also recognizes the family behind him and the legacy of service that he helped build. His name will now remain here, alongside the firefighters who continue that tradition of putting our community first.”

These sentiments were shared by Mayor Mrakas, who said Patrick “represented the very best of public service and community building.”

“I know how much this building, and the fire service itself, means to the Patrick family, with three generations of Patricks having served from this station,” he said. “I truly hope that seeing Stewart’s name proudly displayed here serves as a lasting reminder of the significant and lasting contributions all of you have made to this community.

“As we dedicate this building, I think we are also honouring every single member of Central York Fire Services who continues that tradition of service today. You are all carrying Stewart and the Patrick family’s legacy in the work you do – through your professionalism, courage and commitment, and in your willingness to be there for our residents on what can often be the most difficult days of their lives. Today, we are connecting an incredible chapter of Aurora’s history with the men and women who continue that work today – and with those who will answer the call in the years ahead.”

By Brock Weir
Editor
Local Journalism Initiative Reporter