Happy Fathers Day! It seemed appropriate that we would spend a little time this week with someone who is not only a father, but a grandfather!
Courtesy photo: Hyannis Fire
Hello, My Name Is: Dean Melanson
Occupation: Retired Hyannis Deputy Fire Chief… And Grandfather
What was your first paying job?
My first paying job was taking care of two horses at my neighbor’s house.
When was the last time you laughed really hard?
At my last day of work at Hyannis Fire. Retired Lieutenant Don Chase and I were sharing memories of the lighter moments at the fire dept.
Did you grow up on the Cape?
I did not grow up on Cape. I grew up in Maynard, Mass. and then moved to Stow, Mass when I bought my first home. In 1985 I moved to Hyannis to join the Hyannis Fire Department.
Cape Cod Creamery
Where is your ‘go-to’ spot for a scoop of ice cream?
We have many favorites and like to mix it up. Four Seas Ice Cream, Steve & Sues, and Cape Cod Creamery are our three favorites.
Do you have a favorite non-profit group here on the Cape?
Big Nick’s Ride is my favorite. They stand out for all the work they do for our community and our veterans. ALL of the money raised goes back into the cause – no one takes a salary – all the labor is from volunteers.
What is the one thing you love to do that surprises people the most?
That I love to ride a motorcycle. I have ridden for 45 years and ride with many great people from around Cape Cod.
In a parallel universe, what would you be doing?
I would be a firefighter.
What person had the greatest influence on you?
My Dad. He was a quiet guy (unlike me) who taught me so many skills. He gave me great advice, like find a job that you truly love. He also quietly demonstrated that family comes first by the way he treated and cared for my mother and me.
If I looked in your refrigerator right now, what would I see?
Leftovers and the makings of a few more meals. I love to cook and my wife Margie is a great cook in her own right.
If you could go out on a boat fishing for a day, who would you bring?
My wife Margie would have to be there. From my past, I would bring: my grandparents, my parents and my aunt and uncle who are all gone know. My family all enjoyed fishing along the canal when I was young. I would just sit back and enjoy the stories and jokes that would inevitably arise. I would spend the day smiling from ear to ear and probably never even attempt to wet a hook myself.
We are always looking for new people to feature in “Hello, My Name Is…”. If you know an interesting member of the Cape community, please send us their name: [email protected]. When possible, please include their contact information and a little about them.
Thank you!
Want to meet a few other folks? Click here:
Bridget Eklund, The Math Learning Center
Tom Bednark, Barnstable Bat Company
Alice Cartier, Home Health Aide
Aanjes Hershfield, Brazen Belles
Freeman Johnson, WWII Navy Veteran
Brian Sances, Cape Musician
Brian Morrison, Barnstable Police Department
Amanda Braga-Tipton, Chaplain Candidate United States Army
About Cat Wilson
