Remembering Deputy Chief Bill Mack – Memorial This Saturday

Dear Brothers and Sisters,

This message is a reminder of Chief Mack’s memorial and my chance to share a few words about our friend, mentor, and longtime union leader.

Bill was so much more than a firefighter—he was a champion for all of us. As the 8th District Representative for the Washington State Council of Firefighters, Bill fought tirelessly to improve firefighter health, safety, and labor rights. He believed deeply in the mission of the union and never backed down when it came to protecting the well-being of our members.

Bill dedicated his life to the fire service. He was a leader on the fireground, a respected teacher of CPR and EMT skills, and a driving force behind regional training efforts. He believed in leaving the job better than he found it—and he did exactly that.

Many of us also knew Bill for his bigger-than-life personality. He was the loudest voice in the room, the quickest to crack a joke, and the first to plan a good time—especially our annual “shopping trip.” His humor was legendary… and often inappropriate in all the best ways. If you know, you know. That was Bill.

He was also a fixture at community events, never too busy to lend his time. For years, Bill ran our union’s hot dog stand at the Auburn Good Ol’ Days festival. He worked the grill like he was hosting a block party—cracking jokes, handing out food, and talking union pride to anyone who’d listen. It didn’t matter if you were a firefighter, a kid, or just someone walking by—Bill made you feel like part of the crew. That was who he was—present, engaged, and always representing something bigger than himself.

He was a loyal fan of University of Washington football and a regular on the golf course—always chasing the perfect round, usually with a beer in hand. He also poured his heart into causes beyond the firehouse, especially the Nick of Time Foundation, which helps prevent sudden cardiac death in young people. Bill was deeply committed to their mission and helped bring awareness and support from our fire service community.

But above all else, Bill loved his family. He is survived by his wife, Jane, and their three sons—Taylor, Joe, and Christian—as well as two beloved grandchildren. They were his greatest pride, and our hearts are with them.

Please join us in honoring Bill’s life and legacy at his memorial this Saturday. Full details are below. Let’s show up for Bill the way he showed up for all of us—loud, proud, and united.

Memorial for Deputy Chief Bill Mack

📍 33645 20th Ave S, Federal Way, WA 98003

📅 Saturday, August 9th – please arrive no later than 11:30

🧑🏾‍🚒 Class A Uniform requested (if attending in uniform)

💐 All spouses and significant others are welcome to attend and pay respects

Let’s gather not just to mourn Bill’s passing, but to celebrate the incredible life he lived—and the unforgettable mark he left on our brotherhood.

Fraternally,

Ryan Freed

President, Local 1352