The Officers and Members of the College Park Volunteer Fire Department regret to announce the passing of Past Chief and Past Chairman of the Executive Board, Frederick E. Brower. Fred passed away peacefully on Tuesday morning, July 8th after battling a long illness.

Fred first joined the CPVFD in the 1960’s originally hailing from Northern New Jersey. Fred rose up the ranks serving at nearly every rank including as Chief of Department from 1978-1983 and again from 1990-1991. Fred also served the Department in an administrative capacity for many years on the Executive Board as Chairman from 2003-2006 and then Company Treasurer for the next 10+ years. In addition to his time as a CPVFD Chief Officer, Fred served the PGFD as a Volunteer Division Chief for many years starting at the inception of that program. Even when not serving in an operational capacity, Fred could often be found around northside fire grounds, particularly in the 4th Battalion and in Montgomery County’s 1st Battalion, providing advice and insight to command (or feeding a handline in a door). Fred’s fire service accomplishments and commendations were vast, and culminated with being inducted into the PGCVFRA Hall of Fame in 2019 for his contributions to the CPVFD, PVCFRA and Prince George’s County.

Outside of the CPVFD, Freddie worked a long career for ISO spanning 40+ years. During his time at ISO, Fred worked on surveying communities, buildings and fire department’s nationwide and had a passion for ensuring communities all over the nation were adequately protected, based on the ISO Fire Suppression Rating Schedule.

The thoughts and prayers with everyone at the CPVFD are with all of Fred’s family and friends. Details will be posted when arrangements are finalized and announced.