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8 August 2025
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A final act of service: Former Drakenstein chief fire officer’s farewell inspires food drive
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Family, friends, colleagues and community members gathered at the Paarl Fire Station to bid farewell to Derick Damons, a man whose life’s work was defined by courage, integrity and service, on Friday, 8 August 2025. True to his nature, even in his final wishes, Chief Damons thought not of himself but of others. Before his passing, he made a special request: instead of flowers, he requested a food drive launched in his honour, so that the communities he served could continue to feel his care. Donations of non-perishable food can be dropped off at the Paarl Fire Station at Bergriver Boulevard and will go to the less fortunate - a final act of service from a man who gave so much in life.
Mr Damons’ firefighting career spanned 27 years with Drakenstein Fire Services, joining in 1997 as assistant chief fire officer before being appointed chief in 2004. He retired in August 2024 due to illness, leaving behind not only a well-trained, disciplined firefighting unit, but also a legacy of mentorship, humility and quiet leadership.
At the memorial, current Fire Chief Wynand Els urged mourners to celebrate a life well-lived and honour the enduring example Chief Damons set. Councillor Stephen Korabie, Executive Mayor of Drakenstein Municipality, spoke of “terrible sadness and regret” at losing a man who was more than a leader, a father figure, mentor and voice of reason whose presence commanded both respect and comfort.
“He served people first,” the mayor said. “He embraced progress for a better future, lived with purpose, and leaves behind a light that will never be extinguished.”
Colleagues remembered him as a “quiet hero” with a steady hand, a listening ear, and an unwavering willingness to help wherever he could. As the memorial bell tolled, the atmosphere was both sombre and joyful, tears mingling with warm memories, celebrating a man whose stature spoke more than words ever could.
Chief Damons may have left this earth, but his contribution to both the service at large and the community will forever live in Drakenstein and its people.
Source: Drakenstein Municipality
Mr Damons’ firefighting career spanned 27 years with Drakenstein Fire Services, joining in 1997 as assistant chief fire officer before being appointed chief in 2004. He retired in August 2024 due to illness, leaving behind not only a well-trained, disciplined firefighting unit, but also a legacy of mentorship, humility and quiet leadership.
At the memorial, current Fire Chief Wynand Els urged mourners to celebrate a life well-lived and honour the enduring example Chief Damons set. Councillor Stephen Korabie, Executive Mayor of Drakenstein Municipality, spoke of “terrible sadness and regret” at losing a man who was more than a leader, a father figure, mentor and voice of reason whose presence commanded both respect and comfort.
“He served people first,” the mayor said. “He embraced progress for a better future, lived with purpose, and leaves behind a light that will never be extinguished.”
Colleagues remembered him as a “quiet hero” with a steady hand, a listening ear, and an unwavering willingness to help wherever he could. As the memorial bell tolled, the atmosphere was both sombre and joyful, tears mingling with warm memories, celebrating a man whose stature spoke more than words ever could.
Chief Damons may have left this earth, but his contribution to both the service at large and the community will forever live in Drakenstein and its people.
Source: Drakenstein Municipality
