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City Announces Passing of Fire Chief


With profound sadness, the City of Garden Grove announces the passing of Fire Chief Tom Schultz on January 27, from stage 4 pancreatic and liver cancer. He leaves behind his wife of over 30 years, Kim, their two daughters, son, and close family members who were at his side.

“Garden Grove has lost an admirable man and an exceptional leader who proudly devoted himself to protecting lives and serving a community that will forever be in his debt. Our most heartfelt thoughts and condolences are with his family during this difficult time, shared by all those who knew him,” says Garden Grove Mayor Steve Jones.

Schultz became the City of Garden Grove’s 13th fire chief on April 29, 2015, following a 30-year career with the Fullerton Fire Department, where he led their management consolidation with the Brea Fire Department as deputy chief.

He mentored future firefighters and fire service leaders as an instructor at the Santa Ana College basic fire academy and held leadership positions in organizations such as the Orange County Fire Chiefs’ Association, and many county and state committees.

Last September, Schultz retired from the City, but at the request of City Manager Scott Stiles, continued to serve as annuitant fire chief pending the City’s decision whether to retain the current City fire department or transfer to the Orange County Fire Authority (OCFA).

“I have the highest regard and appreciation for Chief Schultz’s remarkable leadership of the Garden Grove Fire Department. His dedication, enthusiasm, and passion for this city and community are unmatched. He was a good friend, and a man of principle, devoted to his family, and to the men and women of the Garden Grove Fire Department. He will be deeply missed,” says Stiles.

Division Chief TJ McGovern, named Interim Fire Chief during Schultz’ illness, will continue to serve in that capacity until further notice.

Celebration of Life Ceremony

Join us for a celebration of his life.
February 13, 2019 at 2pm
EVFree Fullerton
2801 N. Brea Boulevard
Fullerton, CA 92835

The celebration is open to the public. Elected Officials and Fire Departments, please RSVP by February 11, 2019.