In a sad announcement that has deeply affected the Tyrone and Centre County community, family, friends, and fellow first responders are mourning the loss of Lieutenant Matthew Eric “Matt” Decker, a dedicated member of the Bald Eagle Volunteer Fire Company.
Lieutenant Decker was a well‑respected volunteer firefighter whose commitment to service and community safety made a lasting impact on all who knew him. As an officer with the Bald Eagle Volunteer Fire Company, he was known for his leadership, courage, and willingness to respond whenever and wherever he was needed.
A farewell and remembrance gathering has been shared by peers and supporters on social media, indicating the community’s profound respect and grief over his passing. Members of the fire service, local officials, and citizens have expressed their condolences and shared memories of Matt’s dedication, his passion for helping others, and the many ways he shaped the fire company’s culture.
Matt Decker served as a lieutenant with the Bald Eagle Volunteer Fire Company, a role that carried responsibilities for training, emergency response leadership, and mentorship to junior firefighters. Throughout his tenure, he was admired not only for his technical skills and tactical acumen, but also for his calm presence in emergency situations and heartfelt commitment to serving his neighbors.
Volunteer fire services like Bald Eagle’s depend on the selfless contributions of individuals like Matt—people who balance their personal lives with tireless commitment to public safety. His passing is a significant loss to the department and to all the families and individuals he protected over the years.
While specific details surrounding Lieutenant Decker’s passing and memorial arrangements have not yet been widely published in official news outlets or funeral home announcements, the outpouring of support from the firefighting community and local supporters underscores the depth of his influence.
