Longtime West Haven Fire Chief Dies, Mourned

WEST HAVEN, CT — The West Haven community is mourning the death of former longtime Fire Chief William “Wiggy” Johnson Jr. Johnson served more than 40 years with the Center Fire District, including 26 years as chief before retiring in 2007.

“His name was not only respected in our city but by many across the fire service,” the West Haven Professional Firefighters union wrote in a post on Facebook. “Our sincere condolences to the Johnson family.”

Mayor Nancy R. Rossi issued the following statement on Facebook:

I would like to take a moment to acknowledge the passing of a West Haven hero, former Fire Chief William “Wiggy” S. Johnson. Chief Johnson was hired at the Center Fire District in 1966 and rose to the rank of Chief, a title he held until he retired in 2007. His sense of duty to the community and his subordinates was unmatched. Chief Johnson was instrumental in ensuring West Haven firefighters received the best strategic training and equipment, which garnered national acclaim.

In addition to his service to West Haven, Chief Johnson served his nation in the United States Marine Corps Reserve. His dedication also extended to the realm of education. Johnson was a fire science instructor at the Waterbury State Technical College, the University of New Haven, and the National Fire Academy. His expertise was put to good use by educating future generations of heroes in West Haven and our nation.

I would like to express my gratitude for Chief Johnson’s service to West Haven and I offer my condolences to his children, William, Stephanie, Kimberly, and Michelle, as well as everyone whose lives were touched by Wiggy.