Joseph C. Menezes Scholarship Fund

This scholarship fund was developed by the Maine Chapter of the IAAI, after the death of Joseph C. Menezes. Joe was one of the founders and Charter Members of the Maine Chapter. He was an Investigator with the State Fire Marshal's Office, at the time of his death in 1994, at the age of 58.

Joe was born in Sommerville, Massachusetts and attended schools there. He moved to Windham, Maine in 1968 with his young family. He was employed by the Town of Windham, as the Fire Inspector / Investigator, as well as other various duties. He was a member of the North Windham District #2 Fire Company from 1969 to 1983.

In 1983, he became an Investigator for the State Fire Marshal's Office, covering Cumberland and Oxford counties. During his time with the State, he investigated numerous fires and explosions and was active in trainings. Joe was survived by his wife, Laura, three sons, Mark, Paul, and Robert, and a daughter Lisa (who is a member of our organization).

The officers of the Maine Chapter decided to honor Joe with a scholarship in his memory. The scholarship is for those attending Fire Science Degree programs, with a desire to become involved in fire investigation. Members of the Maine Chapter and their families are welcome to apply for this scholarship.

After the initial donations sent to the Maine Chapter, in memory of Joe, the fund is supported by the sale of 50/50 raffle tickets at meetings & trainings. We know Joe would be proud of the work the Maine Chapter has done since its’ inception. For those of us who knew and worked with Joe, we always enjoyed his smile and working with him. We miss him.

For further information on the Joseph C. Menezes Scholarship, or applications, please contact Sr. Inv. Richard Shepard via e-mail at rshepar1@maine.rr.com

Menezes Scholarship Application