William “Mick” McFadden, 81, of Locustdale, passed away with family by his side, Friday, November 28, 2025, at his residence.  Born in Ashland, he was the son of the late Leo V. and Mary (Durkin) McFadden.  Mick was a graduate of the former Ashland High School, class of 1962.  He started working at Tri State Envelope Company in 1967 and retired in 2008.  He was married for 60 years and had 5 children.

The following is a listing of Mick’s service to his community:

May 4, 1963, joined the Washington Fire Company, Ashland

1970, Became Assistant Fire Marshall, the position was later renamed 3rd assistant fire chief, holding this position until he retired from Borough Assistant Chief in December 31, 2023

1972, Became captain of the Washington Fire Company, Ashland

1972, One of the founders of the Washington Fire Company Rescue Unit

1973, Became a member of the Washington Fire Community Ambulance Board of Directors

1975, Became captain of the Washington Fire Company Community Ambulance.

November 2013, was awarded the Ashland Elks Citizen of the year

March 7, 2020, VFW Post 7654, Ashland, recognition 57 years of service as a first responder

January 2024, Received a citation from the Ashland Borough Council for his service to the community

Currently, groundskeeper at the Washington Fire Company Park and Trustee of the fire company

Preceding him in death was a sister; Regina Schnee, a brother; Leo J. McFadden, and a son in law; Ray Jones Jr.

Survivors

Wife:  Dolores (Wagner) McFadden, married for 60 years

Daughters:

 Lori A. Steinhilber (Charlie)

Beth A. McFadden (Paul)

Gail A. Jones, (Ray Jr., deceased)

Kelly A. Wright (Dan)

Son:  Bill McFadden Jr.

Grandchildren:

 Megan Jones (Cole)

CJ Steinhilber (Erika)

Great Grandchildren:  Briella, Ivy

Sister in Law: Laura Stokes, Sharon Mehlman(Roy),

Brother in law: and godson Richard Wagner(Lori), Michael Stokes(Gwen) Godson, nieces, nephews and cousins

Friends and relatives are invited to attend a Celebration of Mick’s Life, Wednesday, December 3, 2025, at 12 Noon, in the Washington Fire Company, 1307 Centre St., Ashland.  Officiating will be Rev. Rose Marquardt.  A viewing will begin at 9 AM in the fire station until time of service.

 Memorials may be sent to the Schuylkill Area Community Foundation, 216 South Centre Street, Pottsville, PA., 17901. in care of the Bill McFadden Memorial Fund to benefit the Washington Fire Company and the Washington Fire Community Ambulance Fund.   www.sacfoundation.com.

Condolences and memories may be shared at www.Fritzfuneralhome.com.

The Richard W. Fritz Funeral Home, Ashland, is in charge of funeral arrangements.