It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of former Assistant Chief Chester (Chet) Haber. Chet began his time with the Berlin Fire Department in 1946 at roughly 18 years old. Alongside his brother Chief Ed Haber, they became a staple to the fire service of Berlin. Chet served as an active firefighter to the town for 50 years and continued his involvement for another 20 years thereafter. Not only did Chet dedicate his life to the service of firefighting, but also served in the army for his country during the Korean war between 1951-1953.

The knowledge of the fire service that Chet brought to the department was invaluable. Not only did Chet share his teachings with the Berlin Fire Service, but with many other fire services across the state of Connecticut. Chet created a home for fire students by establishing the Hartford County Regional Fire School. For a period of time, trainings took place at various fire departments in the area up until Chet had the school built where it stands today. It was because of Chet’s hard work, dedication and efforts that allowed him to secure state funding to build the school. Chet served on the Board of Directors at the school as the Assistant Director of Training, and eventually the Director of Training. He ensured every student that came through that academy received the best training that can be offered. He did so by putting his deal making skills to the test and acquiring training equipment, fire apparatus, and a training tower. If you were to visit the classroom at the academy today, you will see a plaque by the door dedicating the room to Chet.

Even though the times of active firefighting had come to an end for Chet, the members of the Berlin Fire Department would still see him every week at drill and at monthly meetings. He would share stories of the different fires he had been to in town throughout his time as a firefighter. As a reminder of this, the upstairs hallway in the firehouse is lined with photos, many black and white. They are a testament to the history and timeline of Chet’s dedication to the Town of Berlin. A black band now covers the Berlin Fire Department patch to remind us of Chet and all he has done for the fire service, the state of Connecticut, and his country. Chet was a leader, mentor, friend, and will be sorely missed.

If you wish to pay your respects to Chet and his family, calling hours will be:
Wake, Monday July 11, 2022 – 4PM – 7PM
Erickson-Hansen Funeral Home of Berlin,
111 Chamberlain Highway, Berlin CT 06037

Funeral, Tuesday July 12, 2022 – 10AM Mass
St. Paul’s Church, 461 Aling St, Berlin CT 06037

Burial, Maple Cemetery
1165 Worthington Ridge, Berlin CT 06037

(Write up provided by Berlin Fire Department, Photos provided by Berlin Fire Department and Chris Sargis)