Chadwick Jacob Mittleider went home to be with his Lord on December 2, 2021. He was born June 4, 1969, to Arvid and Eva Mittleider in Ellendale, North Dakota. Growing up on a farm, he was not afraid of hard work; he was only five when he learned to drive a combine. Until 1987, he attended Ellendale schools, where he was captain of his football and basketball teams. Chad visited his sisters every summer and worked the charter boats in Westport, Washington. He eventually relocated to Westport and graduated from Ocosta High School with the Class of 1988.

Chad’s journey in the fire service began in 1990, when he joined the Ocosta Fire Department, and then the Westport Fire Department/South Beach Ambulance Service as a volunteer. He later obtained his EMT certification and became one of the first members of the South Beach Ambulance Service’s paid staff.

In 1995, Chad met the love of his life, Danielle, and they married December 14, 1996. Chad continued serving the South Beach community. He frequently trained and instructed at the Fire Academy at North Bend, Washington. In 1997, he received his paramedic certification and continued at South Beach Ambulance until he was hired by the Aberdeen Fire Department on August 2, 1999. Two days later, he and his wife welcomed their daughter, Kaydee, into the world. They made their home in Montesano, Washington.

Chad continued serving, both as a firefighter/paramedic and through Mitts Tractor Works, the earth-moving and landscaping business he owned and operated. Through his company, he donated time and equipment for improving athletic fields in the area. If there wasn’t a field to play on, he would build it. He loved teaching life skills and mentoring through coaching sports, especially basketball and softball. Chad wished for everyone that wanted to play to have a team and place to play. He routinely traveled back home to Ellendale to help family and neighbors bring in the fall harvests and to enjoy fishing and hunting. He loved seeing all his North Dakota family and friends.

Promoted to the position of engineer on July 1, 2009, Chad served in this rank until his passing. He dedicated 32 years to the fire service and 22 years with Aberdeen Fire Department, leaving a legacy of selfless service to others. Remembered for his professionalism, compassion, and love for his community, he gave with a servant’s heart in everything he did.

Chad loved fishing, farming, and firefighting and was well known for his competitive nature when playing cards or casting a line. Most of all he enjoyed spending time with family. He was only a phone call away and a best friend to all.