Strathcona firefighter ‘truly was a hero’

A 17-year veteran Strathcona County firefighter who died by suicide Sept. 15 is being remembered as a devoted father and an active leader in the emergency services family.

British Columbia Cariboo-Prince George MP Todd Doherty used his time in the House of Commons Friday to speak about his friend Darren Anderson, who “lost his battle with PTSD.”

“From his earliest years, all Darren wanted to be was a firefighter, like his grandfather, father and uncle,” Doherty said. “He wanted to be the best there was.”

Anderson is survived by his wife, Michelle, and three daughters.

“To Gracie, Noah and Sophia — your dad truly was a hero and made a difference in the world,” Doherty said.

“He touched the hearts of all who knew him and he will be greatly missed.”

Fighting back tears, Doherty said the family wanted to share a message with Anderson’s colleagues: “Darren was so honoured and proud to be part of the firefighting and first responder family.”

Strathcona County acting fire Chief Jeff Hutton said everyone was “deeply saddened” by Anderson’s death.

“Lieutenant Darren Anderson was a highly respected, valued and active leader in our emergency services family — and a large part of our entire community, ” he said.

“As chief, my primary focus remains with the family’s needs and the needs of my first responders that I am responsible for.

“There continues to be work ahead to ensure we have the supports available for our first responders, when they need it most. That will come, but for now, we thank our colleagues, extended first responder families, partners, friends and family for their condolences and support as we process our grief.”