06/07/2026
A saddened time…A.C. Matt Anderson showed such strength and courage dealing with colon cancer. He generously shared his knowledge, experience, and passion for rescue with everyone around him. He played a vital role in collaborative vehicle extrication research conducted by SAFE and the Medical College of Wisconsin…helping apply advanced techniques for patient care, including head and neck stabilization during complex crash extrications. Matt will always be remembered for his generosity, dedication, and unwavering commitment to helping others. Prayers for the family, friends and and rescuers. R.I.P. Matt.
🚒 Line of Duty Death Notification 🚑
It is with profound sadness that we announce the Line of Duty Death of Assistant Chief Matthew Anderson.
For over 32 years, Matt dedicated his life to serving others through Fire and EMS. His career began in Maple Bluff, where he earned his EMT-B certification and started a journey that would touch countless lives. Throughout his distinguished career, Matt proudly served with Madison West Ambulance, Curtis Ambulance, Bell Ambulance, Hartland Fire Department, Lisbon Fire Department, Ryan Brothers Ambulance, and the Johnson Creek Fire Department.
In 2012, while serving with Hartland Fire Department, Matt earned his Paramedic certification, further demonstrating his commitment to providing the highest level of care to those in need.
Matt was more than a firefighter, paramedic, and officer. He was a mentor, leader, teacher, and friend. He embodied the true meaning of brotherhood and dedicated countless hours to helping others succeed in the fire and EMS service. He was known for his quick wit, endless sass, and perfectly timed one-liners that could bring a smile to anyone’s face, even on the toughest days.
For more than seven years, Matt courageously battled colon cancer. Despite the challenges he faced, he continued to answer the call, serve his community, mentor future generations of firefighters and EMS providers, and give back to the profession he loved so deeply. His strength, resilience, and unwavering dedication inspired everyone around him.
Matt’s impact on the fire and EMS community cannot be measured. His legacy lives on in the countless lives he touched, the providers he trained and mentored, and the friendships he built throughout his career.
He leaves behind shoes that can never truly be filled, but his lessons, leadership, and memory will remain with us forever.
Our thoughts, prayers, and deepest condolences are with Matt’s family, friends, and loved ones during this incredibly difficult time. We ask that you keep them in your hearts as they navigate the days ahead. Please know that your fire and EMS family stands beside you, and Matt’s legacy will never be forgotten.
Celebration of Life
Family, friends, and members of the fire and EMS community are invited to join us in celebrating Matt’s life on:
📍 Bowl-A-Vard Lanes
2121 E. Springs Drive
Madison, Wisconsin
📅 June 10, 2026
🕓 4:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Please come share stories, memories, and laughter as we honor a man who gave so much to so many.
Rest easy, brother. Thank you for your service, your friendship, your mentorship, and your unwavering dedication to others.
You will be missed, but never forgotten.
❤️🖤🚒🚑
