The Delta Fire Fighters’ Charitable Society has stepped up for KidSport Delta in memory of a popular former battalion Chief.
Pete Popovich was 64 when he passed away suddenly back in August. He worked 35 years with the Delta fire department and retired as battalion Chief when he 60. He was admired by many for his outgoing personality. So much so that the DFFCS recently held a golf tournament in his honour at the Vancouver Golf Club in Coquitlam where he was a member. The event raised $5,000. Another $2,315 was generated in individual donations. All the funds were presented to the local KidSport chapter last week.
“Pete was very gregarious and super social,” said DFFCS director Kristy Storey. “The fire service has a mandatory retirement at 60 and Pete stayed right until the end. He just loved being with the crews and was super involved.
“He also loved sports and went to the World Police and Fire Games back in 2015 in Virginia. We wanted the money to go somewhere meaningful to him and Delta KidSport is a great fit. He would be happy to know it will help more kids to play sports who otherwise may not be able to do so.”
It’s these type of generous donations that have so far helped 60 Delta children play 21 different club sports this year, totaling $20,000.
“We have helped many new families who otherwise would not have qualified due to income but since they have been out of work they have found them in a situation of needing to ask,” said Delta KidSport chair Carlene Lewall. “We really appreciate the donation as this goes a long ways to help the kids in Delta. Thank-you to the Delta fire fighters and the Pete Popovich Memorial Fund for thinking of us and the kids of Delta.”
