GRASS VALLEY, Calif. April 3, 2025 – It is with a heavy heart that the Grass Valley Fire Department announces the passing of Chief Matt DePauli.
Chief DePauli began his career in 1948 while working at the Bank of America when he joined Grass Valley Fire Department Protection Company #1 as a firefighter. He quickly embraced the dedication and commitment of the volunteer fire service, rising through the ranks and becoming Fire Chief in 1952 at just 26 years old—the youngest Chief in the department’s history.
In 1953, Chief DePauli joined the Arcade Fire Department in Sacramento County, where he continued his distinguished career. In 1974, he was appointed Fire Chief of Arcade Fire Department, which later became part of what we know today as Sacramento Metro Fire Department.
Chief DePauli was a true gentleman—humble, professional, and a leader of great character. He always expressed gratitude for beginning his fire service career in Grass Valley, a place that remained close to his heart.
Chief DePauli will be deeply missed but never forgotten.
A traditional bell ringing ceremony will be held in his honor on Thursday, April 10th, at 3:00 PM at the Race Street Fire Station.
A procession of fire apparatus will escort Chief DePauli from Hooper and Weaver to Greenwood Cemetery on Friday April 11th at 1100 am.