Port Coquitlam-born James "Jim" Boileau, one of the city's first paid firefighters and a former PoCo fire chief, died last month. He was 83.
Boileau started his lengthy service with the fire department in 1946 as a volunteer. He was its volunteer fire chief from 1958 to '61 and, eight years later, he became one of four firefighters to receive pay.
Boileau was the first officer to rise through the ranks of firefighter, fire lieutenant, captain and chief, holding the last position from 1983 to '90.
In that role, Boileau upgraded the firefighting fleet with new pumper trucks and heavy rescue vehicles. As well, he boosted staffing levels in firefighting, fire prevention and fire training.
The Langley resident is survived by his wife of 61 years, Dolly, two daughters, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
@jwarrenTC
