Central York Fire Services names Station 4-3 “Stewart G. Patrick Fire Station” to honour former Deputy Fire Chief

AURORA, Ontario, September 24, 2026 - Central York Fire Services (CYFS) is proud to announce the renaming of Station 4-3 to “Stewart G. Patrick Fire Station” in honour of his distinguished fire service career starting in 1924. Members of fire services, local leaders of the past and present and the Patrick family gathered Thursday afternoon to unveil the new station name.

Stewart G. Patrick was born in 1908 and began his fire service career with the Aurora Volunteer Fire Brigade on January 14, 1924. Demonstrating an early commitment to serving his community, he continued as a member of the brigade for the Town of Aurora in 1926.

Throughout his career, known affectionately as "Stew”, he advanced through the ranks of the fire service, earning the respect of his colleagues and the community. In 1950, he was elected Deputy Fire Chief by the members of the brigade, a position he held until his retirement in 1973 after nearly five decades of dedicated service.

Following his retirement, his son, Donald Patrick, continued the family's legacy by succeeding him as Deputy Fire Chief. Stew was also a successful local businessman. He owned and operated the Aurora Meat Market and later the Glendale Pavilion at Musselman’s Lake, both of which became well-known establishments.

Stew's dedication to public service extended beyond the fire department. During the 1960s, he served on Aurora Town Council, first as Deputy Reeve and later as Reeve of the Town of Aurora. His commitment to civic leadership also led him to serve on York County Council, where he represented the interests of Aurora and its residents.

Deputy Fire Chief Stewart G. Patrick leaves a legacy of leadership, service, and community dedication. His contributions to the fire service and the Town of Aurora continue to be remembered and celebrated.

“Deputy Fire Chief Patrick’s influence extends far beyond his years of service. His unwavering dedication to public safety, commitment to his community, and passion for protecting others have left a lasting impact on those who had the privilege of working alongside him. His leadership, professionalism, and service set a standard of excellence that continues to guide and advance new generations of firefighters.”

–  Central York Fire Services Fire Chief Rocco Volpe

“Deputy Fire Chief Patrick was known for his leadership, integrity, and steadfast commitment. His contributions helped shape the culture and values of Central York Fire Services and this renaming will honour and ensure his legacy continues to guide and inspire others.”

–  Aurora Mayor Tom Mrakas

About Stewart G. Patrick Fire Station (Station 4-3)

Built in 1979, Stewart G. Patrick Fire Station (Station 4-3) is located at 220 Edward Street in Aurora and is one of three stations dedicated to serving Aurora. The station houses one fire crew and local Emergency Services.

About the Central York Fire Services

Central York Fire Services (CYFS) is a consolidated fire department that provides protection to the Towns of Newmarket and Aurora. CYFS operates under the direction of a six-member Joint Council Committee made up of three members from each of the Town Councils. The Joint Council Committee provides and administers a borderless, single-tier of fire protection and prevention services throughout both towns in accordance with the Consolidated Fire Services Agreement and the Fire Protection and Prevention Act. Visit cyfs.ca for more information.

For more information contact:

Corporate Communications
Town of Aurora
Phone: 365-500-3083 | Email: communications@aurora.ca

Proudly protecting the communities of Aurora and Newmarket

Sign up to our Newsletter

Stay up to date on the town's activities, events, programs and operations by subscribing to our eNewsletters.