Ret Worc Fire Chief Geoffrey Gardell

Retired Worcester Fire Chief, Geoffrey Gardell, 67, a longtime resident of West Boylston, passed away surrounded by loved ones at home Sunday, May 25th, 2025, after a valiant battle with cancer.

Geoffrey was born in Worcester, the son of Burton Gardell and Nancy (Tivnan) Gardell, Pedersen. Raised in Worcester, Geoffrey graduated from Worcester Boys trade in Auto Mechanics study. He worked at Christie and Thompson auto parts and Worcester Mack truck. On January 22, 1984, he was appointed to the Worcester Fire Dept. His first station was Greendale E-11 and over the years served with many companies, notably Scope 1, E-16 & R-1. He was a member of the WFD Scuba team and Tech rescue team. As he was promoted up through the ranks he served on L-5 and E-1 as Lt. When promoted to Captain, he got his dream position as the Captain of Rescue 1. He received the firefighter of the year award in 2009. He continued his promotional climb to District Chief C-4, Deputy Chief C-2 and culminating as the Chief C-1 before retiring January 22, 2017 after 33 years serving the citizens of the City of Worcester.

Geoffrey is survived by his wife, love and soulmate, Cheryl (McGinley) Gardell; two loving daughters, Eileen Gardell of Holden, and Allison Gardell of Worcester; a cherished granddaughter Reagan; He leaves his best friend and dog, Maddie, and his parrot Skitzo. Geoffrey also leaves, six siblings, Richard Gardell in Alabama, Stephen Gardell (Ellen) Worcester, Ret Worcester District Fire Chief, Timothy Gardell (Tara) of Worcester, John Gardell, Worcester, Pauline Anderson (David) Wheelwright, Kathleen McManus of Worcester; Many nieces, nephews, extended family and friends. In addition to his parents, he is predeceased by a sister, Christine Diggins, Stepfather Reidar Pedersen, whom he was close to, a niece, Stacey Gardell, a nephew, Michael Shea and a brother in-law, William “Billy” McGinley.

A devoted firefighter, Geoffrey saw many tragedies over his 33 years, including the loss of the “Worcester 6”. With each situation Geoffrey helped guide his men and the department through the most trying of times. He was a fire fighters chief and friend. Geoffrey was a member of the IAFF Local 1009, the Mass Fire Chiefs Association, Worcester Fire Credit Union and Fire Relief associations. Geoff was also an avid golfer and Skier. When not at the station, he could be found either on the golf course at Wachusett Country Club or on the trails of Wachusett Mountain as a veteran member of the Ski Patrol for 35 years. He recorded 3 holes in one in golf. He was also an avid sports fan of all the Boston teams and Duke basketball. Cheryl and Geoffrey also found joy traveling, from day trips to Maine to Gloucester to vacations in Florida, and the solace of just chilling on the deck together, sipping a cocktail and listening to some good country music. Geoff enjoyed life to the fullest, especially with his loved ones by his side.

Friends and family are invited to calling hours Monday, June 2nd from 3 pm to 7 pm in the MERCADANTE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL, 370 Plantation St. His funeral will be Tuesday, June 3rd from the funeral home with a procession to Our Lady of Providence/St Bernards Church, 228 Lincoln St where his celebration of Christian burial Mass will be held at 10:00 am. Burial will follow in Mt Vernon Cemetery, West Boylston. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions in his name can be made to Our Lady of Providence Church, 228 Lincoln St 01604.