Pembroke Fire Chief Touched Thousands in 50 Years of Service

When Paul Gagnon showed up to a car accident, he didn't just file a report. He looked a distraught woman in the eye and said, "But look, the car did what it was supposed to do because you're standing here talking to me." That one moment changed her entire perspective on life.

It was just one of thousands of lives Gagnon touched during his seven decades in Pembroke, New Hampshire. The former fire chief and police officer passed away in May after a brief illness, leaving behind a community transformed by his quiet strength.

Gagnon joined the Pembroke Fire Department in 1974 and worked his way to chief in 2021, a position he held until retiring last year. He also served as a Concord Police Department juvenile detective and spent a year as president of the New Hampshire Police Association. After retiring from the force in 2001, he became a technology coordinator at Epsom Central School because he loved working with young people.

His colleagues remember a leader who answered calls at 4 a.m. without hesitation. "Just an amazing man, friend and leader. He was always there for anybody and everybody. Didn't matter the time of day," said firefighter Rick Bilodeau.

But what set Gagnon apart wasn't just his commitment. It was how he made people feel. His niece Jenny Jones said he had a gift for making everyone feel like he was sitting next to them, not across from them.

He carried that gentle energy everywhere. As an active member of Grace Capital Church, he was devoted to Bible study and inspired his cousin Les Gagne with his deep faith. As a husband to Pam for 46 years, he created what their family calls "a loving symbol" of partnership. As a father to Janelle and John, he modeled public service they now strive to emulate.

The Ripple Effect

Since Gagnon's passing, his family has been overwhelmed by stories from people whose lives he changed. A woman whose accident he responded to. Young officers he mentored. Students he taught. Firefighters he trained. Each story reveals the same truth: Gagnon had an ability to be at the right place at the right time to help people.

His nephew Josh Ginn joined the fire department at 14 because of his uncle's inspiration and served alongside him for 23 years. Current Fire Chief Erik Paulsen credits Gagnon with setting the department up for success. Assistant Fire Chief Robert Farley says he strengthened the bond between police and fire departments through his unique leadership style.

"He found trouble, which is good for police officers," recalled retired Concord Police Chief Bob Barry with a smile, noting Gagnon's talent for catching bad guys and protecting the vulnerable.

At his memorial service, three sets of five bells rang out in his honor. Then came a final roll call: "Concord fire alarm Capital Area calling Chief Gagnon." The silence that followed wasn't empty—it was full of gratitude.

His daughter Janelle Lavin says the outpouring of stories has brought her family comfort and hope during an incredibly difficult time.