Martin Michels

District Chief Martin Michels - Ottawa Fire Services

Martin’s love of firefighting and devotion to his career began in 1980 when he joined the Gloucester Fire Department. During that time, he was also a volunteer with the Osgoode Fire Department. He retired as a District Chief in 2013 with the Ottawa Fire Department after a rewarding career of 33 years.

Martin was not just a firefighter, but was a diligent mentor to many young firefighters who have spoken of how the wisdom and knowledge Martin shared with them helped them in
their careers and in their lives. He was privileged to have worked with many amazing firefighters who became lifelong friends. An adventuresome spirit, Martin toured Canada and the United States on his motorcycle and was a member of the Red Knights Motorcycle Club. He was a passionate snowmobiler and loved to get out on a bright sunny day with his brothers and friends. Martin was an avid fisherman and spent summers at his cottage in Calabogie with his family and friends.

Martin was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer and passed away on January 26, 2021 at the age of 67. He left behind his wife of 47 years Elaine and his sons Jeffrey (Elizabeth) and Richard (Renée), and will be sadly missed by his grandsons James and Roland and by his brothers and sisters.

Martin touched the lives of so many people. He was a loving husband, father, brother, grandfather, and friend, and will forever be in our hearts.