Contributed by DPFFA member Firefighter Jim Davis (retired)
and Durham Fire Capt. Tom Richarson (retired)

To everyone that has been involved with the Durham Fire Department,
Madbury Fire Department and NH Forestry Service,

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our long
time friend Alfred E. Grimes. For years Al has also been known to
many people all over the United States as "Mr. Smokey Bear".

Al passed away at his home the evening of May 25 after a relatively short
fight with cancer. In the past few weeks Al's condition has declined
rapidly. He died quietly in the presence of Sylvia, his wife of more
than 50 years, and their son and daughter.

Al started in the fire service in 1958 with the Durham-UNH Fire
Department. In 1973, with the rank of Assistant Chief, he became a
Ranger with the NH Forestry Service. He retired in 1984. Al was
also a 48 year member, starting in 1960, of the Madbury Volunteer
Fire Department and a Charter Member of the Durham Ambulance Corp
(now McGregor Memorial EMS). During his 24 year retirement Al and
Sylvia toured the United States with his collection of Smokey Bear
memorabilia and knowledge. To help celebrate Smokey's 50th birthday
Al and Sylvia took their display to many state and county fairs in
most of the lower 48 states.

For his service and dedication, the United States Forest Service has
awarded Al both the Silver and Gold Smokey Bear Awards, the highest
awards given for service in the Forest Service. Al is one of only a
select few people to receive both of these prestigious awards. These
are proudly displayed in their home. As Al's health was declining he
was the recipient of a rare home visit by Smokey Bear.

Calling hours will be on Friday, May 30 and Saturday, May 31, 10 AM
to 4 PM, at Al and Sylvia's home at 7 Mill Hill Road, Madbury, NH 03823.

Funeral Services will be held in the field behind Al and Sylvia's
home on Saturday, June 7 at 1 PM. The rain location will be the
Madbury Public Safety Complex, 334 Knox Marsh Road, Madbury, NH
03823 (742-1167). Following the service there will be a reception
at the Madbury Public Safety Complex.

Additional information will follow concerning funeral details.
Funeral parking will be at remote sites in the area with shuttle bus
service.

Perhaps in honor of Al's passing today is a "High Class 4" day, "Red
Flag Warning" in some areas. Mr. Smokey Bear is watching from the
highest possible fire tower.

See Fosters Obituary here.