Rheal Leger Obituary, Death – We regret to inform you that Captain Rheal Leger, a member of the Dieppe Fire Department, passed away on Thursday, January 5, 2023. Our deepest condolences go out to his family and friends. After 39 years of service to the community of Dieppe, Captain Leger went suddenly at the age of 57 due to an illness that was brought on by his employment. 1984 was the beginning of his career when he joined the fire department as a volunteer fireman. In 1987, he was hired on permanently as a firefighter and emergency medical technician, and he was advanced to the rank of Captain in 2014.
The passing of Captain Leger has left the Fire Department with a significant void. Everyone recognized and respected his talents as a leader, as well as his commitment to helping out his coworkers. He was well liked by everyone, but the things he enjoyed doing most were his work and helping the people in his neighborhood. “His loss will leave a significant void in both the Department and the community,” stated Marc Cormier, who is the Chief of the Fire Department. In the year 2000, Leger was honored as the Canadian Firefighter of the Year and was presented with a Medal of Bravery for his heroic actions in rescuing a mother and her two children from a flood while he was off duty. In recognition of his exemplary commitment to the organization he worked for, he was awarded both the provincial and national long-service awards.
“On behalf of the City of Dieppe, I express my heartfelt sympathies to his wife, children, family, and all members of our Fire Department,” stated Mayor Yvon Lapierre. “It was a privilege to serve beside him and I will miss him greatly.” In memory of Captain Leger, the flags atop City Hall and both of our fire stations will be lowered to a half-staff position. There will be no visitation at the funeral home because that was the last wish of the person who has passed away. The local government will honor Captain Leger and his family by holding a memorial service in accordance with the procedure that was set by the Canadian Association of Fire Chiefs and in accordance with the intentions expressed by Captain Leger and his family. At a later time, we will announce the specifics of the ceremony that will be taking place.