Bill
Mack

End of watch - July 18th 2025

FOUNDING frln MEMBER
& INAUGURAL VICE-PRESIDENT

A Tribute to Deputy Chief Bill Mack – A Sentinel’s Light Gone Home

With reverence and heavy hearts, we mark the passing of Deputy Chief Bill Mack on July 18, 2025—a sage guide, a visionary builder, a beloved mentor, and an unwavering sentinel in the fire service and greater human community.

For those of us who walk the path of service, carrying the weight of others’ pain and peril, there occasionally arrives a man whose presence does more than guide—it centers. Bill was that man. To me, and to so many others, he was more than a colleague. He was a compass in uncertain times, a kindred spirit in the sacred labor of protecting life, and a firelight in the dusk for those finding our way.

Bill’s career spanned more than 30 years, beginning in 1992 with the City of Auburn Fire Department. He rose through the ranks at Valley Regional Fire Authority, leading as a Battalion Chief before stepping into the role of Deputy Chief at East Pierce Fire & Rescue in 2021. There, he continued his life’s great work: mentoring, developing, and lifting others up—until his retirement in 2023.

He taught individual skills and led regional training that empowered countless firefighters and officers across King and Pierce counties. But what made Bill unforgettable wasn’t only the content he delivered—it was the spirit he carried. Whether in a firehouse, a training yard, or a crowded classroom, Bill's presence reminded us that Teaching is a form of Love.

Beyond duty, he gave generously to community efforts like the Nick of Time Foundation, and helped all of us here at First Responder Liaison Network—guide and mentor us in our dreams to build a grassroots youth mentorship non-profit. Wherever there was a gap, Bill showed up—smiling, sleeves rolled, ready to serve.

There are men who speak loudly and accomplish little, and there are those who move quietly and change everything. Bill Mack was the latter. His laughter warmed a room. His stories stitched our generations together. His compassion gave even the most weary the courage to keep going and chase our horizon.

To his beloved wife and children—we grieve with you. And we are grateful beyond words for the years you shared him with us. The imprint of his life will echo in every new recruit who feels seen, in every community that trusts their firehouse more deeply, and in every quiet act of leadership done with integrity and joy.

To the young guardians rising now—those stepping into the arena with fire in their hearts and service on their minds—know this: may you walk in the light Bill Mack helped kindle. Let it guide you. Let it grow. Because as Bill always reminded us…”hiring better people, will create better firefighters.” May you live like he did, and raise others up when you too reach your goals.

Rest well, Brother. The watch is ours now.