Dale Watts honored for 50 years of ‘unwavering’ dedication as Shelby firefighter

He is fourth Watts brother to reach 50-year milestone with Shelby

Photos by Tom Rivers: Dale Watts is shown with his family after he received this ceremonial clock in appreciation for his 50 years of service to the Shelby Volunteer Fire Company. He was recognized during a banquet on Saturday that also included the installation of officers for the fire company and Ladies Auxiliary.

SHELBY – The Shelby Volunteer Fire Company honored Dale Watts on Saturday for 50 years of volunteer service to the company. Watts is a past fire chief and long-time officer for the fire company.

For many years he was among the top responders. He had the shortest drive to the fire hall. He worked next door for 37 years as owner of Radiators Plus, doing oil changes, inspections, tire changes, exhaust and other repairs.

Dale is the fourth son of the late Sidney Watts to reach 50 years of service with the Shelby Volunteer Fire Company. Sidney was a charter member of the fire company in 1947. Gary, Howard and Sidney “Buster” Watts all reached 50 years. Another son, Mark, has 48 years in with the milestone anniversary not far away.

Dale Watts, center, is presented a proclamation for his 50 years of service to the Shelby Volunteer Fire Company. It was presented by his brother Howard Watts, left, who is president of the fire company and Dave Moden, right, who is fire chief.

Dale has been a past chief, assistant chief, deputy fire coordinator for the county, first chairman of the pull tabs, advisor of the Explorer Post in the 1980s, assistant chaplain for 15 years, winner of the Chief’s Award for five different years, and Christmas Party chairman for 10 years.

“It became part of my life,” Dale said during an interview at Saturday’s banquet at the Shelby fire hall. “I love the camaraderie and service to the community. I love my firefighting family.”

He appreciates the backing of the other firefighters over the years when he served in leadership positions. He said his customers also were understanding when he left the garage to respond to a call.

Watts received citations and proclamations from the Shelby Town Board, State Sen. Robert Ortt and Assemblyman Steve Hawley.

Stephanie Thomas speaks during Saturday’s Shelby Volunteer Fire Company banquet, praising her father Dale Watts for his many years of dedication to the fire company in numerous roles.

Watts’ daughter Stephanie Thomas spoke on behalf of his family, including his other daughter Melissa.

“Fifty years of service as a volunteer firefighter,” Thomas said. “Fifty years. That’s not just a number – it’s a half century and my dad has answered the call whenever it came. Whether it was in the middle of the night, the heat of the summer, or freezing cold of winter, he was there – putting others’ needs before his own.”

Watts recently moved to Lyndonville and continues to drive to Shelby for the fire company.

“I can say without a doubt that his commitment to serving others that has shaped the man he is – always there when needed, unwavering and dependable,” his daughter said.

Shelby Town Supervisor Scott Wengewicz reads a proclamation commending Dale Watts for his 50 years as an active volunteer firefighter.