East Moline Fire Chief Robert DeFrance will retire from the position, effective Tuesday, March 31, after nearly three decades of leading the department, city officials announced in a news release today, Feb. 19.
“Chief DeFrance’s dedication and leadership have left a lasting impact on the East Moline Fire Department and the community it serves,” East Moline Mayor Reggie Freeman said in the Thursday release. “We are deeply grateful for his years of service and the legacy he leaves behind.”
City of East Moline leaders were unavailable today to discuss the process of hiring a new chief or a timeline for when a new chief might be named.
“I’m going to miss it, but it’s time to retire,” Mr. DeFrance, 60, told the QCBJ. “I’m going to take some time visiting with the grandchildren and fishing.”
Mr. DeFrance, who has been East Moline fire chief for 27 and a half years, added that it has been his honor to be chief, and he knows the department will continue to do good work because it has top-quality workers.
“For the next three months or so, I’m just going to focus on being retired,” Mr. DeFrance said, adding that it’s always possible that he will eventually start a second career.
The East Moline Fire Department has 36 personnel, the chief said.
Mr. DeFrance’s fire service career spans decades and multiple states. He began his public safety journey as a cadet with the West Peoria (Illinois) Fire Department until the age of 18, when he qualified and became a firefighter.
After serving in the United States Marine Corps, he continued his fire service career with the Beaufort Fire Department in South Carolina. He rose through the ranks to assistant chief for the Burton Fire District in South Carolina before being hired as the City of East Moline fire chief.
Grew, modernized the department
Throughout his tenure in East Moline, Chief DeFrance exemplified professionalism, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to protecting the lives and property of residents and visitors, the city said in announcing his retirement. He led the department through significant growth and modernization, strengthening emergency response capabilities, advancing firefighter training and safety initiatives, and fostering strong partnerships with neighboring agencies and community organizations, according to the city release.
“Chief DeFrance’s leadership during major incidents and emergencies was marked by calm decision-making, strategic thinking, and a steadfast focus on public safety. Under his direction, the department continued to build a culture grounded in teamwork, accountability, and service,” the city said.
In addition to his operational leadership, Chief DeFrance held membership in the Canine Accelerant Detection Association. He also served as a mentor to many firefighters and officers, shaping the next generation of leaders within the department.
