With heavy hearts we remember and honor the life of Chief Darrin Rodney Spaulding, a dedicated leader, a fierce protector and beloved member of our community and the Ascutney Volunteer Fire Department service family. He was not only a chief but also a father, a son, a mentor, a role model, and a friend to all who knew him. Darrin built a firehouse culture based on trust, teamwork, and love for the work. He forged many friendships with our surrounding mutual aid communities on both sides of the Connecticut River, earning the respect of other leaders, making AVFD always a valuable resource in their times of need. After 44 years of fire service and leadership to our community, he died on April 9, 2024, at the age of 59.

As a young man of 15, he followed in the footsteps of his father, Rodney Spaulding. Chief Spaulding exemplified courage, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to the safety of our surrounding communities for 44 years. The community knew that he would show up at any hour to assist in their time of need, always arriving at the scene for medical calls before the ambulance. He cared deeply for this community, and his legacy will continue to inspire all who follow in his footsteps. He had both of his firefighter sons in firetrucks before they could walk, and they are both active members in AVFD today. Darrin worked for himself as an electrician since the age of 18.

Darrin was an advocate of fundraising for his department. He was well known for his Chief’s Flower Sale at Mother’s Day, his donation yard sale which attracted hundreds of patrons twice a year, and his pie sale, for which he always proudly made his grandmother’s custard pie.

Darrin loved making maple syrup with his son, Jackson, deer hunting, and spending endless hours on his property watching deer, bears, and turkeys. One thing people will always remember is his sense of humor and practical jokes. He instilled a great sense of camaraderie with all surrounding departments.

May you rest in peace, Darrin. Your legacy is etched into the heart of our firehouse, our community, and our hearts, and you will never be forgotten.