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Townsend, MA

This article is a direct street report from our correspondent and has not been edited by the 1st Responder newsroom.

Mark Haven, 74, of Ashby, passed away peacefully on May 16, 2026, surrounded by his loving family. Mark began his firefighting career at the Townsend Fire-EMS Department in Townsend, MA. A longtime and devoted member of the Ashby community, Mark dedicated many years to public service through the Ashby Fire Department, where he served with distinction and ultimately retired as Assistant Chief.

His commitment to helping others extended well beyond the firehouse, as he was known throughout the community for his kindness, hard work, and willingness to lend a helping hand. Mark also proudly served with the Sons of the American Legion and was instrumental in starting the Ashby Car Show for Veterans.

For more than 50 years, Mark was a familiar face at Shepherd’s Sales and Service in Townsend, where his remarkable ability to repair nearly any piece of equipment made him a trusted resource for generations of customers.

To those in the fire service, Mark will be remembered for his dedication to his department, his community, and the people he served. A firefighter, officer, husband, father, grandfather, and friend, Mark leaves behind a lasting legacy of service and a community that is better because of the years he gave to it.

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GARY SHEPHERDCorrespondent

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