The Ottawa firefighting community is grieving the tragic loss of Mathew Marcel Deschene, a First Class Firefighter with the Ottawa Fire Department. Known affectionately as “Mat” by his colleagues and loved ones, Deschene passed away in an apparent suicide, leaving family, friends, and fellow firefighters devastated. The Ottawa Firefighters Local 162, the union representing Deschene, shared the heartbreaking news on social media, stating, “With heavy hearts we announce the passing of Ottawa Firefighter 1st Class Mathew Marcel Deschene. Our thoughts remain with Mat’s family, his Local 162 brothers and sisters, and his two boys Brodie and Braden. Rest easy, brother.”
Deschene’s death has sent shockwaves through the close-knit Ottawa Fire Service. Serving the city for many years, he was deeply respected and admired by his colleagues. Those who knew him described him as a dedicated firefighter who approached his work with unwavering commitment, a strong sense of camaraderie, and the selfless spirit that defined the Ottawa Fire Department.
Tributes have poured in from across the firefighting community, not only in Ottawa but nationwide. Emergency response network Embauche 911 expressed their condolences, writing, “It is with great sadness that we learned of the passing of Mathew Marcel Deschene, Firefighter 1st Class with the Ottawa Fire Department. We offer our sincerest condolences to his family, his relatives, and all his colleagues in the National Capital. The fire community across the country stands united in this difficult time. May he rest in peace.”
Deschene, a father of two young boys, Brodie and Braden, was cherished not just as a firefighter but as a parent, son, and friend. Those close to him recall his deep love for his family and his unwavering dedication to helping others. His loss has left a profound impact not only on his immediate family but also on colleagues who regarded him as a brother and confidant.
Ottawa Fire Services issued a statement, saying, “It is with a heavy heart that we share news of the passing of Ottawa Fire Services First Class Firefighter Mathew Marcel Deschene. Our deepest condolences go out to his family, friends, and colleagues during this incredibly difficult time. Our thoughts are with the entire Ottawa Fire Service as they mourn the loss of one of their own.”
Deschene’s death also draws attention to the critical mental health challenges faced by first responders. Firefighters, paramedics, police officers, and other emergency personnel are regularly exposed to traumatic events that can take a toll on their emotional well-being. While often called upon to support others in crisis, they too need assistance and care. Tragically, the pressures of the profession, combined with personal struggles, can sometimes result in devastating outcomes like suicide.
In response, colleagues and community leaders are emphasizing the need for greater mental health resources for first responders. Ottawa’s fire service has long worked to support the well-being of its members, but this tragedy highlights the importance of continuing those efforts.
Deschene’s family has requested privacy as they mourn, but the outpouring of support from friends, colleagues, and the community underscores the impact he had on everyone around him. His legacy of dedication, camaraderie, and love for others will continue to inspire those who knew him.
May Mathew Marcel Deschene rest in peace, and may his family, friends, and colleagues find solace in the support and care that surrounds them during this profoundly difficult time.