|
It is with deep sadness and respect that the City of Fremont and the Fremont Fire Department announce the death of the City’s second Fire Chief, Thomas Estudillo, who passed away Friday, Nov. 10 at his home in the Niles district.
Chief Estudillo, the son of an Oakland Firefighter, began his firefighting career as a volunteer firefighter with the Niles Fire Department in 1941. In 1945, he joined the military in support of the war effort during World War II. After serving his country, Chief Estudillo returned to Niles in pursuit of a career in firefighting. In 1954, he was hired by the Niles Fire Department as one of only three "paid men." On May 1, 1956 he was hired by the City of Fremont into the newly formed Fremont Fire Department. He was promoted to Captain in 1957 and then Fire Chief on March 21, 1960; he succeeded the City's first Fire Chief, Frank Madruga.
Chief Estudillo guided the Fremont Fire Department through the City's first era of rapid growth – Fire Stations No. 1 and No. 7 opened during his tenure as fire chief. What he may be remembered for the most, however, was his genuine effort to develop strong, interpersonal relationships with every member of the Fremont Fire Department. Chief Estudillo genuinely cared for each employee and was known for his many visits to homes and hospitals to check on the welfare of his employees and their families in their time of need.
Chief Estudillo retired from the Fremont Fire Department on Nov. 30, 1977 after he placed his final "out-of-service" call from in front of his home in Niles. The City of Fremont and the Fremont Fire Department convey our deepest sympathies to the Estudillo Family. Chief Estudillo's contributions to the City, the Fremont Fire Department, and the community have had a significant and measurable impact; his legacy of genuine care and concern lives on.
###
|
