UNITY — Firefighting runs in the Stubbs family. Local firefighter Darryl Stubbs has been volunteering for three years yet has been involved with fire halls for as long as he can remember.
Stubbs’ grandfather, Harry “Hap” Stubbs, who was acting platoon fire chief at one time, retired in 1989 as district chief of the North York Fire Department in Toronto.
While Stubbs grew up in Edmonton, the annual trip to visit out east also meant he a visit the fire hall.
“I have lots of fond memories hanging out at fire halls.”
Harry earned the nickname Hap because of how happy he always was, and how he loved his job. Harry was not the only one who enjoyed the thrill of fighting fires. His brother, Kenneth “Duke” Stubbs, also retired as district chief in Scarborough.
Darryl was close to his grandfather, and when he moved to Unity, he was inspired to follow in the footsteps of the honourable men he looked up to. He joined the Unity Fire Department and has found volunteering for your community rewarding.
He has been able to meet new people and create new friendships with others who are willing to go above and beyond.
“Knowing that my fellow fighters will have your back in a dangerous situation creates a special bond,” says Stubbs.
There are also tough times, he says. He finds the hardest part of being a volunteer firefighter is finding ways to recruit new members, but also finding ways to raise funds to supply the firehall and fund training.
Stubbs’ grandfather was known for singing his favourite chants. At his funeral, Stubbs ensured the tradition stayed alive by singing the chants.
Stubbs says he also keeps his grandfather’s loving spirit alive by showing off love and affection for their other family at their second home, the firehouse.
