On October 5, 2024, Assistant Fire Chief of the Brunswick No.1 Fire Company, David Plew, lost his battle with kidney cancer. Asst. Chief David Plew had been a member of the Brunswick No.1 Fire Company for over 32 years. Dave was highly devoted to the Brunswick community and his fellow firefighters. 

As a young child, Dave always had an interest in fire trucks and becoming a firefighter. Growing up in the city of Watervliet and living within a short distance from the Watervliet Fire Department, he would ride his bike to the station, getting to know the firefighters well. From that time on, Dave knew he wanted to become a firefighter. After meeting his wife, Paula Plew, and purchasing their house outside the town of Brunswick, Dave applied to join the Brunswick No.1 Fire Company, which would change his life forever.

Dave joined the department in March of 1993, working hard as a firefighter and making new friends as he moved up the ranks. He quickly advanced from firefighter to lieutenant, then to captain. After a few years, Dave was promoted to the position of second assistant chief. He soon moved into the first assistant chief position, where he served for 10 years. During his time in the department, Dave also served on the board of directors, helping to make important decisions, including apparatus purchases to enhance the department’s capabilities and growth. A sports enthusiast, Dave also managed the Watervliet football and basketball teams for many years. He loved attending games and events his son participated in, including their yearly trip to Wildwood, New Jersey.

Dave truly cherished his role as assistant chief and, for a time, had the privilege of working alongside his son, Matthew Plew, as a fellow firefighter. One of Dave's most memorable incidents was in September 2022 at the Ace Hardware fire on Hoosick Road. Visible for miles, the fire required assistance from fire departments across Rensselaer County and marked the first fire where Asst. Chief Plew had full command.

Dave was described by many as a kind, funny, and caring person who left a lasting impression on everyone he met. He was outgoing and easy to befriend. Sadly, after a routine doctor’s visit, he learned he had stage-four kidney cancer (Renal Cell Carcinoma) and would require surgery to remove the tumor from his kidney. Despite a healthy lifestyle—he didn’t smoke or drink—the cancer diagnosis came as a shock. Doctors concluded that the cancer was directly linked to his years of firefighting as an interior firefighter.

In the fire service, the brotherhood and sisterhood mean you never fight alone, especially against cancer. After returning home, members of the department went above and beyond to support Dave and his family. They organized meals, provided new department clothing, arranged fundraisers at the Brunswick Community Center, and even assisted with property upkeep so that Paula could stay by his side. Family and friends made every effort to ensure his last weeks were filled with love and memories. Two large fundraisers were held to help with Dave's medical bills. Unfortunately, on October 5, 2025, with his family by his side, Dave lost his battle with kidney cancer. He is survived by his beloved wife of 32 years, Paula Plew, his son, who followed in his footsteps as a firefighter, and his daughter-in-law, Chelsea Landor-Plew.

On October 10, 2024, Asst. Chief David Plew was laid to rest with a full firefighter’s funeral. Firefighters and EMTs from Rensselaer County, Albany County, and even a former department member who traveled from California joined the procession to honor Chief Plew. A convoy of fire apparatus from across Rensselaer County lined the roads surrounding the station. Two ladder trucks displayed a large American flag that waved majestically in the wind. After the funeral procession departed, firefighters lined up in salute as Dave’s casket was transported on a neighboring department’s antique apparatus. The procession paused in front of Dave’s turnout gear in the center of the engine bay, and the entire area fell silent as the last call was broadcasted over the radio. After lowering their salute, firefighters rejoined the convoy, accompanying Dave to his final resting place. He was surrounded by his Fire Department family, friends, his wife, son, daughter-in-law, and all who cared for him.

Asst. Chief Dave Plew made a profound difference in his community in the town of Brunswick and within the fire service over the last 32 years. His family extends gratitude to the sixth-floor staff at Samaritan Hospital, including Morgan, Patrick, and others who cared for Dave. Special thanks also go to Community Hospice staff members Kalissa and Laci, along with Accent Health’s Danielle, for their compassionate care. The family also appreciates all members of the Brunswick No.1 Fire Company, including Fire Chief Steve Wilson, Center Brunswick Fire Chief Alex Hyra, Melrose Fire Department Asst. Chief Dominic Pasinella, and many others from the fire community for supporting them during this time of loss.

Asst. Chief Plew’s family wants firefighters to know that Dave’s cancer was directly linked to his 30 years of firefighting. In accordance with Dave’s wishes, they encourage every firefighter to get a cancer screening blood test as part of their annual department physical. Early detection can provide a fighting chance against this devastating disease.