Crime & Safety
2 Retired Medford Firefighters Pass Away
Capt. David Garland and Lt. James Morse passed away over the holidays, the firefighters' union said Tuesday.
MEDFORD, MA — The Medford firefighters' union announced the deaths of retired Fire Capt. David Garland and Lt. James Morse Tuesday.
Garland joined the department on March 6, 1977 and retired on Feb. 14, 2003. Morse was appointed Oct. 22, 1978 and retired Aug. 1, 1986.
Garland died Dec. 27, according to his obituary. He is remembered as an adventurer who "loved the mountains and ocean" and "loved sharing good times with others."
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"Everyone has a favorite 'Chippa' story that will make you laugh until you cry," his obituary states. "He would not want us to mourn for him."
Garland's burial service will be private, but a celebration of life will be planned in the future.
Find out what's happening in Medfordfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
Morse passed away Dec. 28. He enjoyed "traveling, exercising and eating at his favorite local restaurants," according to his obituary. A lifelong resident of Medford, Morse was actively involved in the Knights of Columbus and St. Joseph's Church.
A private funeral service will be held due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
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