UPDATE: West Fargo Fire Marshal Dell Sprecher has just been honored for his remarkable 35 years of service at the West Fargo Fire Department, a milestone that highlights his enduring commitment to the community. At the department’s recent award banquet, the 65-year-old Sprecher reaffirmed his dedication to firefighting, indicating he has no plans to retire anytime soon.
After joining the department in 1988, when it was still a volunteer service for a community of less than 5,000 people, Sprecher has played a pivotal role in transforming it into a full-time paid municipal department now serving nearly 40,000 residents. This transition, which he helped spearhead in 2018, allowed the department to expand its services, including medical response capabilities.
Sprecher’s journey began in Devils Lake, North Dakota, before moving to West Fargo at age 14. Initially working as a liquor truck driver, he was encouraged by family connections to join the fire department. “I thought, well, I’ll give it a shot,” Sprecher recalled, showing his humble beginnings and willingness to embrace change.
He rose through the ranks from fire inspector to assistant chief under Chief Roger Olson in 1993, and ultimately became fire marshal. “It needed to be a long time ago,” Sprecher said of the department’s evolution, emphasizing the importance of adapting to the needs of a growing community.
Currently, as fire marshal, Sprecher oversees the West Fargo Risk Reduction Division, which focuses on fire safety education, compliance inspections, and innovative community programs. Fire Chief Dan Fuller commended Sprecher’s leadership, stating, “He runs the best community risk reduction program we’ve ever had here.” Under Sprecher’s guidance, the program has significantly reduced unnecessary 911 calls, saving hundreds of emergency responses each year.
Sprecher’s philosophy centers on hiring smart and equipping his team with the necessary tools to succeed. “I say I hire smarter than what I am,” he noted, shedding light on his commitment to building a strong department.
Despite nearing four decades of service, Sprecher remains passionate about his job. “If you like what you do, why stop doing it?” he said, emphasizing the importance of purpose in one’s career. His unwavering dedication to public service has not only shaped his life but has also left a lasting impact on the West Fargo community.
As the West Fargo Fire Department continues to evolve, all eyes will be on Sprecher as he leads the charge into the future, ensuring safety and support for the residents he serves. This is a developing story as Sprecher’s contributions to the community keep expanding, and he shows no signs of slowing down.
