We regret to advise of the death of Firefighter FR Noel Rideout on 6 September 2026 at James Paton Memorial Hospital in Gander NL, at the age of 88.
Noel served as Deputy Fire Chief and Fire Inspector for 9 Wing Canadian Forces Base Gander from 1979 to 1998. He was a founding member of the Town of Gander Fire Department in 1968, beginning nearly 40 years of dedicated volunteer service. In 1986, he became Fire Chief of the Gander Fire Department and was involved in every aspect of the department, including firefighting, training, fire prevention, and the ongoing development of that fire service.
Noel’s service extended far beyond the ordinary responsibilities of a firefighter. He played a significant role in the response to the Arrow Air disaster and later helped coordinate assistance for stranded airline passengers who arrived in Gander following the events of 9/11. His leadership and dedication were recognized throughout the region when he served as President of the Maritime Fire Chiefs Association from 2000 to 2002.
Noel’s funeral service took place on 11 September 2026 at Stacey’s Funeral Home. Interment followed at All Saints Cemetery. Online condolences can be sent to the funeral home. As expressions of sympathy, in lieu of flowers, donations in Noel's memory may be made to the Chief Noel Rideout Memorial Fund through the Foundation of Newfoundland and Labrador, established in his memory to support future generations pursuing service to their communities.