Harry Greer, a former Cobourg fire chief with 37 years on the job, is being honoured by the municipality following his death on March 29. Greer was 97.
The municipality has lowered its flags across the town to half-staff. Greer served as chief from 1971 to 1990 and remained closely connected to the department long after his retirement.
He began his service as a volunteer firefighter from 1952 to 1956 before joining the federal fire service outfit known as the 26th Central Ordinance Depot in Cobourg. At that time, the municipality did not yet have a municipal fire department. On Nov. 16, 1962, Greer joined the Cobourg Fire Department as a lieutenant. He was appointed deputy fire chief in 1964 and chief in 1971, a role he held until his retirement in 1990.
“Chief Greer helped guide the fire department through a significant period of growth and modernization,” said Mayor Lucas Cleveland.
“Over nearly four decades, he earned the deep respect of his colleagues and the community he proudly served. His dedication, leadership, and passion for firefighting helped shape the department we know today. We extend our sincere condolences to his loved ones and are grateful for his immense service to our community.”
Greer remained closely connected to the department well into retirement and was widely regarded as a foundational figure in shaping the culture and professionalism of the Cobourg Fire Department.
“He was deeply respected within our department and the broader community,” says deputy fire chief, Kevin Ashfield. “He mentored and supported generations of firefighters, many of whom went on to serve in senior roles. He was also a long-standing presence in the community and a proud ambassador for the fire service.”
Flags will remain at half-staff until sunset on April 21.