“A life in service to others is a life well lived.”
Please join the Lakeville Fire Department in honoring and celebrating a life defined by dedication, leadership, and public service.
The Lakeville Fire Department deeply mourns the passing of retired Deputy Fire Chief David Goodfellow, who passed away on September 15, 2026, at the age of 55.
A Career of Distinction and Dedication
Deputy Chief Goodfellow joined the Lakeville Fire Department in 1992, transitioning to a full-time firefighter in 1996. Recognized for his leadership and vision, he was promoted to Deputy Fire Chief in 2005—a role he held with honor until his retirement in 2018. Over more than 25 years of service, he left an indelible mark on the department and the town of Lakeville:
- EMS Expansion: Leveraging his deep emergency medical expertise, he played a pivotal role in expanding Lakeville’s municipal ambulance and paramedic services.
- Fire Prevention & Education: Driven by a passion for community outreach, he frequently visited local schools and civic groups to teach vital fire safety skills.
- Mentorship: He took great pride in guiding the next generation of firefighters, generously sharing the wisdom gained over his long career.
Service Beyond the Station
David’s devotion to helping others knew no boundaries. Beyond his work with the fire department, he continuously served his country, community, and neighbors:
- Military Service: Proudly served in both the United States Army National Guard and the United States Naval Reserve.
- Civic Leadership: Served the youth and families of the region as a dedicated member—and former Chairman—of the Freetown-Lakeville Regional School Committee.
- Continued Service in New Hampshire: After moving to Wilton, New Hampshire, David remained active as a volunteer firefighter with the Wilton Volunteer Fire Department and as a paramedic with the Wilton Ambulance Service.
Family and Legacy
Above all his achievements, David was a devoted husband and father. The members of the Lakeville Fire Department extend our deepest condolences to his wife, Donna Jean, his children, Ethan and Becky, and the entire Goodfellow family during this difficult time.
We remain profoundly grateful for Deputy Chief Goodfellow’s more than a quarter-century of selfless devotion to Lakeville. His legacy lives on in the department he helped build, the firefighters he mentored, and the countless lives he touched throughout a lifetime of service.
David Goodfellow truly lived a life well lived.
