We offer our condolences to family and firends of former AFCA member, Barry Goertz, who passed away peacefully with his family at his side on February 25, 2026.

A Celebration of Barry’s Life will be held at the Andrew Community Centre, 5401 51 Ave, Andrew, AB, on March 3, 2026, at 1:00 pm.

Please see https://www.dignitymemorial.com/en-ca/obituaries/edmonton-ab/barry-goertz-12763036#services

Alberta Fire Chiefs Association
Professionals Serving Professionals
Office of the President

January 5, 2026

Dear AFCA Members,

It is with deep sadness, we have received news of the passing of the Alberta Fire Chiefs Association Life Member and Past President, Brian McEvoy.

Brian was a dedicated member of the Association from 1996. Elected to Board Director in 1999, further elected to 2nd Vice President in 2004, 1st Vice President in 2005 and served as AFCA President from 2006 to 2009. In recognition of his exceptional service and lasting contributions, he was named a Life Member in 2011.

Under Brian’s leadership as President, the AFCA underwent significant reorganization that strengthened the Association’s governance, professionalism, and credibility with members, partners, and government. His leadership helped position AFCA as a respected and influential voice for the fire service in Alberta.

During his tenure and continued involvement with the Association, Brian advanced numerous key initiatives, including recruitment and retention, and presumptive cancer advocacy. He led important work on the development of Alberta’s fire service protocol and consistently offered himself as a trusted resource to chiefs and members across the province on matters related to fire protocol and best practices.

Brian was also a strong advocate on behalf of fire departments with the Province of Alberta. In collaboration with Alberta Transportation, he played a key role in developing the reimbursement system that supports rural municipalities responding to incidents on provincial highways—work that continues to have a lasting operational and financial impact for fire services across the province.

In addition, Brian was instrumental in revitalizing the AFCA Bookstore, recognizing its importance as both a service to members and a sustainable resource for the Association. As part of this effort, in 2007 he supported the appointment of Allen Mercier as AFCA Bookstore Manager, laying the foundation for the bookstore’s long-term success.

Brian remained actively supportive of the Association well beyond his presidency. He served the AFCA annually as the Electronic Elections Scrutineer for two consecutive years and continued to attend AFCA conferences even after moving on to serve as a municipal councillor for the Town of Bonnyville. Through his encouragement and example, Brian influenced many current and past Board members and AFCA members to take an active interest in the Association and its work.

In 2022, Brian was honoured with the Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee Medal, recognizing his significant contributions to public service and the fire service community.

On behalf of the Alberta Fire Chiefs Association, we extend our sincere condolences to Brian’s family, friends and colleagues. Brian’s leadership, commitment, and passion for the fire service will be remembered with great respect and gratitude.

Further information regarding memorial arrangements will be shared as we receive them.

Sincerely,

Chief, Randy Schroeder

President,

Alberta Fire Chiefs Association