LOS ANGELES, CA – Captain Wade Fisher is putting on his Class A uniform, which is an outfit reserved for special occasions and dedications. This time, his uniform will serve as a symbol honoring the life of someone he looked up to.
- Remembering former Captain Tom Schultz
- New Captain Wade Fisher trained under him
- Emotional time for the Fire Department
“Tom getting sick and passing was very sudden. So it’s very awkward to be in the spot that we’re at today,” said Captain Wade Fisher, Fullerton Fire Department.
Tom Schultz was an instructor when Fisher entered the fire academy. Fisher didn’t know he would end up working with then-Captain Schultz on the same crew for the Fullerton Fire Department and becoming close family friends.
“It was very intimidating to me because it was so important that I impressed them and do a good job and once I got here and got to know him, I found out how great of an individual he was,” said Fisher.
Schultz worked his way up the ranks in Fullerton, Brea and ultimately becoming the city of Garden Grove’s Fire Chief in 2015. His career spanned more than 30 years. Fisher says the chief taught his crews to embrace all aspects of their job.
“They take the good and the bad from everyone. They learn from the bad, they learn from the good and they use that to advance and make themselves better for the next generation,” said Fisher.
Wade’s wife and children stopped by the fire station to support him as he gets ready to attend Chief Schultz’ Celebration of Life held at EVFree in Fullerton where he’s giving a remembrance speech
“Writing this was difficult in a sense that it was very emotional,” said Fisher.
Putting down his thoughts on paper brought up so many memories and feelings, but in the end, Captain Fisher says he is proud to share stories and the lasting impact Chief Tom Schultz made on his career and life.
Brea, Fullerton and Garden Grove Firefighters set up a GoFundMe account to help Chief Schultz’ family.
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