Beloved Retired Monroe Assistant Fire Chief Dies, Mourned By Community

MONROE, CT — The Monroe and Stratford fire departments are mourning the death of retired Assistant Fire Chief Dennis Cassia.

“It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of our Life Member and Past Assistant Chief Dennis Cassia,” officials wrote in a post on the Monroe Volunteer Fire Department, No.1 Inc.’s Facebook page. “Dennis was a beloved fixture in our fire department for 40 years where he served in several officer roles including most recently as our Chiefs’ Aide.”

Cassia started his firefighting career 50 years ago as a volunteer in Pleasantville, New York before becoming a career firefighter in Stratford, where he retired at the rank of Assistant Chief as a Shift Commander in 2009, according to officials.

“Dennis had a passion for education and continuous learning, first as a chemistry teacher which positioned him well to serve as an Instructor for the State of CT Fire Academy for over 35 years,” officials wrote in the post on Facebook. “There, he imparted his extensive knowledge to help develop thousands of firefighters and officers over the years. He received numerous awards and citations from the Stratford and Monroe fire departments and the Fairfield County Chiefs Association, culminating in his prestigious induction into the CT State Firefighters Hall of Fame.

“Dennis is survived by his loving wife Kim Cassia; our Life Member, Past President and current Health & Safety Officer, a daughter, son, 2 grandchildren, a brother and a sister. Outside of the fire service, Dennis had a love of astronomy, history, The Three Stooges, and a love/hate relationship with the Mets.”

Funeral details still need to be announced.

“We extend our sincere appreciation for the care and concern shown to Dennis and his family during his recent illness,” the Monroe Volunteer Fire Department wrote. “The vast knowledge, insights and humor that Dennis contributed cannot be replicated, but as they say: We’ll take it from here, Chief.”