Agawam, MA. — June 11 — Stephen Martin, a retired fire chief, passed away suddenly at his Berkshire County home, according to the Agawam Fire Department. Before retiring in 2011 after almost 30 years of service, Martin joined the department in 1982 and held positions as lieutenant, deputy chief, and fire chief. Additionally, he was a founding member of the District 4 Hazardous Materials Response Team of the Massachusetts Department of Fire Services, where he contributed to the development of regional emergency response capabilities.

Members of the department recalled his dedication to public safety and leadership. His contributions to the Massachusetts fire service and the Agawam community had a profound effect on both coworkers and locals.