Former Fire Chief Remembered

It is with deep regret that the East Whiteland Township Volunteer Fire Association announces the passing of Past Chief Donald J. Fonda. Husband of the late Elizabeth "Betty" Fonda with whom he shared 54 years of marriage, Don is survived by his sons: Donald, Dwight, and Scott, a Brother Bruce and five Grandchildren. Don served the communities of East Whiteland and Charlestown from 1974 to 1985, during his time with our company and held various positions including Firefighter, Lieutenant, Assistant Chief, Chief, and Board of Directors member. Mr. Fonda also served in the United States Army during the Korean War, becoming Sergeant First Class and receiving the Good Conduct Medal, Korean Service Medal, United Nations Medal, and the National Defense Medal. He worked for Crucible Steel for 33 years until his retirement in 1985, was an active member and Trustee of the Paoli Presbyterian Church and was active in the Boy Scouts of America as well as being a coach to his sons' many sporting teams. Don and his wife were married at the Valley Forge Chapel in 1954 and in recent years resided in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. A private funeral service will be held on Saturday, June 3, 2017, with military honors. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Mr. Fonda's name to a charity of your choice. Chief Fonda visited our new fire station in June 2015 as we were moving in and donated a fire helmet and trumpet which we proudly display in our station lobby.