Chief Francis R. Roddy (ret) Age 91.

FITCHBURG - Chief Francis R. Roddy, age 91, retired Police Chief of the Fitchburg Police Department, passed away on Saturday, July 6, 2013 in Naples FL with his wife of 65 years at his side. He was born and raised in Fitchburg where he graduated from St. Bernard's High school in 1939. He attended Northeastern University, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Criminal Justice. He graduated from the FBI National Academy in 1967.

Chief Roddy joined the U.S. Marine Corp in 1942 and served in the air wing in the Pacific Theater during WWII. In 1956 he re-enlisted in the Air Force Reserve where he continued to serve his country through 1982.

He joined the Fitchburg Police Department in 1947, becoming Chief in 1965 and served the City until his retirement in 1987. During his tenure as Chief, he brought about many changes and innovations, including standards in training, computerized records and the building of a new police facility. While Chief he served on the board of directors of the International Chiefs of Police Association and the Massachusetts Chiefs of Police Association.

He enjoyed competing on pistol teams with the Police Department, Air Force, and FBI, winning many awards and trophies for his marksmanship. He taught criminal justice to military and police personnel and continued to follow police innovations into retirement.

In 2001 he moved to Florida with his wife...