Retired Boise firefighter Thad Broadhead passed away peacefully on Saturday morning following a brief but courageous battle with pancreatic cancer.
Broadhead, born on June 30, 1967, in Moscow, Idaho, spent his formative years in Texas and Utah, primarily growing up in Cottonwood, Utah. He earned a degree in psychology from the University of Washington before dedicating his life to public service.
Broadhead joined the Boise Fire Department on July 1, 1996, and was promoted to Senior Firefighter in 2000. He retired in December 2021 after 25 years of committed service. The Boise Fire Department said, “Thad was known for his steady presence, strength, and ever-present smile. Broadhead was a dependable colleague and a beloved friend. His calm demeanor and genuine kindness left a lasting impression on all who had the privilege to work beside him.”
Before his passing, Broadhead shared a poignant message: “I hope that my death from pancreatic cancer, in the line of duty, will shed light on the difficulties many on the fire department will face and the risks they are willingly facing in service to the community.”
