UPDATE: West Fargo Fire Marshal Dell Sprecher, a dedicated firefighter with nearly 40 years of service, is not stepping back into retirement anytime soon. At a recent award banquet, the 65-year-old was honored for his 35 years of service to the West Fargo Fire Department, where he has been a transformative figure since 1988.
Sprecher’s legacy is impressive, especially in an industry where longevity is rare. According to the National Fire Protection Association, as of 2022, only 10% of career firefighters are over the age of 60. The average tenure for a firefighter in the U.S. ranges from 25 to 30 years.
Originally from Devils Lake, Sprecher moved to West Fargo at age 14. He began his career after a decade driving a liquor truck, encouraged by a cousin who served in the fire department. Sprecher took a chance and applied for a staff position, quickly rising to become the department’s fire inspector.
In 1993, he was promoted to assistant chief under Chief Roger Olson. Sprecher played a pivotal role in transitioning the West Fargo Fire Department from a volunteer organization serving under 5,000 residents to a full-time municipal department now catering to almost 40,000 citizens.
“It needed to be a long time ago,” Sprecher stated regarding the transition. “We’re a part of the city now, and it’s been nice.”
Since the department’s evolution, Sprecher has focused on his role as fire marshal. This shift has enabled him to concentrate on fire safety and community risk reduction, leading the West Fargo Risk Reduction Division. He oversees crucial tasks such as compliance inspections, fire investigations, and public education.
Fire Chief Dan Fuller praised Sprecher for his commitment to change and adaptability, saying, “Dell has the most institutional knowledge and at the same time has shown his ability to change and adapt to new ideas in the fire service.” Fuller’s admiration reflects Sprecher’s successful leadership in implementing innovative programs that address community needs.
One of these groundbreaking initiatives connects fire responders, police, and public health with local services, effectively reducing non-emergency 911 calls. “He runs the best community risk reduction program we’ve ever had here,” Fuller added, highlighting the program’s role in improving the quality of life for vulnerable community members.
Sprecher’s philosophy of “hiring smarter” has attracted quality team members, further enhancing the department’s effectiveness. “I strongly believe in hiring smart,” he stated, emphasizing the importance of building a strong team.
Despite his extensive career, Sprecher shows no signs of slowing down. “If you like what you do, why stop doing it?” he said. As long as he maintains his health, he plans to continue serving his community with passion and purpose.
As West Fargo celebrates Sprecher’s remarkable career, the community can expect his leadership to bring further innovations and improvements to public safety. The fire marshal’s commitment is a blueprint for future firefighters and a testament to the importance of community service.
Stay tuned for updates on Sprecher’s ongoing contributions to the West Fargo Fire Department and the community.
