Obituaries
Wrentham Dispatcher Daniel Went the Extra Mile for Hometown
The Wrentham Police, Fire, and EMS dispatcher William Daniel Jr. died last week at the age of 55. Words like committed, compassionate and dedicated are just a few used to describe Daniel and the roles he performed for the town.
Last week, Wrentham lost one of their own as police, fire, and EMS dispatcher William L. Daniel Jr. died after a brief illness at the Brigham & Women’s Hospital in Boston. He was 55 years old.
A member of the King Philip High School class of 1973, Daniel went on to study at Boston College and Fisher College where he got his associate degree in business management.
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Versatile does not even begin to describe Daniel who was more than just the Wrentham Police, Fire, and EMS dispatcher.
He also served as the Civil Defense Director since 1987, Special Police Officer since 1984, and Call Firefighter and EMT since 1980.
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In addition, he was a certified Fire Fighter I & II, certified Hazardous Materials Technician, certified in MAST, defibrillator, EpiPen, Enhanced 911, and a LEAPS operator.
Daniel was dedicated to serving his community in any way that he could. In case that all the roles he performed for the town wasn’t enough, Daniel was also a certified dive master, rescue diver, and assistant scuba diving instructor.
“Bill epitomized what a call firefighter was, he would attain training and certifications on his own then bring that knowledge back to the department and membership," said Wrentham fire chief James McMorrow. "His diving experience helped continue the department's dive program for many years."
Always trying to make a difference, McMorrow said Daniel was someone who could be counted on to go the extra mile or do the little things needed to help come through in the clutch.
“Whether minor or severe, his confidence enabled him to perform all aspects of both fire and police realms within the public safety field," said the fire chief. "His demeanor many times came across as gruff to those who didn’t know him, but he was very committed and compassionate to those in need.
“Bill would always give us an extra edge with the bucket brigade as he would carry two buckets instead of one and in the hose drag competition he would not only drag the hose but us as well. His overwhelming size provided the extra power needed at many an incident.”
Daniel is survived by his father, William L. Daniel Sr., and his four brothers, Christopher, John, Robert, and Carl. He is also survived by several nieces and nephews.
In lieu of flowers, contributions in Daniel’s memory can be made to the National Arbor Day Foundation, 100 Arbor Avenue, Nebraska City, NE 68410 or the Salesian Missions, 2 Lefevre Lane, New Rochelle, NY 10801-5710.
For more information on the National Arbor Day Foundation click here.