Death Notices and Obituaries
Also see Deaths of CHIEF ENGINEERS and SUPREME SACRIFICE
April 8, 2010: Anthony “Tony” Lott - Badge # 186 - Served as Technician 5th Grade U.S. Army October 14, 1941 thru September 12, 1945 - 7 Campaign Stars - Appointed Temporary Fireman July 1, 1953 thru Feb. 1, 1954 and Permanently on July 1, 1954 – Engine 9 and 12 - Retired September 1, 1979
Herald courtesy Dennis Morrison
Tony Lott
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FF Anthony Lott
Tony Lott
1967: Men of Engine 12 in quarters with FWD pumper: Front row L-R: Michael Fleming, Joseph Ozene, Leonard Bremus, Captain George Kilgour, and Captain Donald Salmanowitz. On apparatus L-R: Edward R. Kane, William Rasp, John A, Cichon, Anthony Lott.
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May 11, 2010: Captain Joseph Carr - Appointed September 16, 1921 - Assignments: E-1 and E-9 (no dates) - Promoted to Captain June 1, 1938 - assigned to E-4 - Assigned E-7 (no date) - Died May 11, 2010
Herald courtesy Dennis Morrison
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Captain Joseph Carr
1947 ball Book
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October 16, 2010: Harold “Unc” Nicholas - Badge # 236 - U.S. Navy July 20, 1942 thru November 20, 1945 – Appointed October 1, 1956 – Engine 12, 8 and Truck 1 - Retired November 1, 1981
October 18 Herald courtesy Dennis Morrison
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FF Harold Nicholas
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Unc and FF Eddie Cusack at Hillcrest FH
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Unc and FF Jimmy Doyle
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October 31, 2010: Howard Schoonmaker – Served as Technician 5th Grade US Army December 22, 1942 thru December 5, 1945 – European Theatre of Operations Combat Infantry - Appointed PFD December 1, 1947 – Badge 29 - Promoted to Lieutenant February 1, 1958, and then Captain September 1, 1960 - Promoted to Deputy Chief December 20, 1965 - Retired January 1973
November 7 Herald courtesy Dennis Morrison
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D/C Harold Schoonmaker
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2nd Battalion at Lakeview FH - DC Micozzi, DC Schoonmaker DC R Walmsley with aides C. Caposella and J. Perricelli
December 8, 2010: Edward J. Holloway – Served US Navy April 7, 1944 thru February 22, 1946 - Appointed PFD November 1, 1950 – Badge # 155 - Assignments Truck 2, Truck 3, Truck - Promoted to Lieutenant September 1, 1960, assigned Truck 3 Tour 4 on September 1, 1963 - Promoted to Captain - January 1, 1964, assigned Truck 2 - Tour 3, Truck 1 - Tour 3
Charlotte Observer
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Captain Ed Holloway
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1968 Ball Book
January 9, 2011: Captain Robert "Woody" Woodruff - Served as Metal-Smith 2nd in US Navy May 6, 1952 thru October 17, 1955 – Appointed PFD March 1, 1960 – Badge # 240 - Assigned March 7, 1960 - E6; A-shift September 1, 1963 E6 Tour 3; January 27, 1964 E7; Tour 2 July 1, 1964 E1, Tour 3; Truck 2, Tour 3 (no date); October 18, 1965 E1, Tour 3 - Promoted to Captain March 1, 1970 E-12, Tour 4; 1979 E13, 1982 E10 Tour 4, 1983 E8 Tour 2
January 12 Herald courtesy Dennis Morrison
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Captain Woodtruff
In rescue Truck at Headquarters
Captain Woodruff at 1985 School 9 Fire
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April 9, 2011: Anthony "Tony" Capello- U.S.M.C. January 1943 thru January 1946 - Appointment June 1, 1956 - Badge # 114 – FAO, Engine 12 & 13 - April 14, 1970 - Mechanical Repairman position - Retired June 1, 1979
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Anthony Cappello
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May 5, 2011: Patrick J. Giglio Badge # 142 - U.S. Army April 7, 1966 thru March 17, 1968 – Appointed February 17, 1969 – Engine 12, 7 – Retirement 1994 - Son of FF Patsy Giglio
Herald
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Patsy J Giglio
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July 10, 2011: Charles R. Coleman - Master Mechanic - Viet Nam veteran - Appointed November 1, 1872
Herald
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1989 Ball Book
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July 16, 2011: John V Bradle - Served in U.S. Navy August 17, 1960 thru November 15, 1960 - Appointed PFD October 1, 1970 - Retired 1994
Herald
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John Bradle
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July, 20, 2011: Deputy Chief Jess McCavitt - Served as Aviation Cadet in US Navy August 10, 1942 thru August 19, 1943 – Appointed PFD January 1, 1950 - Badge # 179 -Deputy Chief April 6, 1966.
July 21 Herald courtesy Dennis Morrison
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D/C McCavitt
3rd Battalion HDQTS - DC J McCavitt, DC W Mariani, Aides T Watterson, R Tullo, & J Maccanico at Riverside FH
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August 16, 2011: Anthony J. Corsetto - U.S. Army June 28, 1948 thru April 25, 1950 - Appointed January 1, 1955 - Badge # 209 – E13, 8, 11, Combustibles - Retired April 1, 1974
Herald
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Anthony Corsetto
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Anthony Corsetto
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Anthony Corsetto
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1968
August 28, 2011: John H. "Jack" Embrich - U.S. Army September 12, 1961 thru September 11, 1963 (disabled veteran's status) – Appointed Paterson Police Dept. July 1, 1967 – Appointed PFD February 17, 1969 Badge # 120 - Engine 11, 7 - Retired July 1, 1992
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Jack Embrich
Jack Embrich
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November 10, 2011: Alfonso A Francavilla May 18, 1992 - Son of FF Alphonso G Francavilla
November 14 Herald
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Alfonso A. Franvavilla
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November 18, 2011: Captain Louis Ponstingel – Served as Electrician 2nd Class Petty Officer - US Navy April 15, 1954 thru April 10, 1958 – Appointed PFD July 1, 1962 – Served E2, E3, T3 - Promoted to Captain March 24, 1983; E8
November 21 Herald
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Louis Ponstingel
Captain Louis Ponstingel
Hillcrest Firehouse - Captain of Truck 2, Thomas Alala, Ray Cusack, Captain of 8 Engine, Louis Ponstingel, , Eddie Cusack and Glenn Brown.
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FF Lou Ponstingel in center
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Lou Ponstingel of E3 at deluge set
Parade photo - L-R, Lou Ponstingel Ralph DiGuglielmo, unknown, Tony Zisa & Sal Botti. E-7, snorkel & steamer in background
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March 6, 2012: Ernest Scerbak - Fire alarm lineman
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1968 Ball Book FA Supt Donald Walker and linemen Alfred Romeo, Daniel Walsh, John J. Dougherty, Raymond Fitzpatrick and E Scerback
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March 15, 2012: B/C Terrance Pellegrino - Appointed August 1, 1966 - Retired 1997 -Brother of D/C Joe Pellegrino
March 17 Herald News courtesy Dennis Morrison
B/C Terry Pelligrino
April 1, 2012: Served US Army as Sergeant April 2, 1942 thru January 14, 1946 - Appointed PFD July 1, 1947 - Badge #36 - Promoted to Lieutenant in 1958, Captain in 1961, Deputy Chief in 1965 and Assistant Chief March 15, 1970 - Retired July 1, 1984
April 4 Herald courtesy Dennis Morrison
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Assistant Chief Micozzi
Xmas 1975 news clip
AC Micozzi - 1982 4th alarm on East 11th Street
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July 1984: Retirement party at Madison Avenue firehouse for AS Alfread Micozzi. At far end of table L-R: Chief Harold Kane, AC Micozzi, Mayor Frank Graves, AC Charles S Walker. At hear end L-R: AC Milt Katz, AC Willie Comer. Twop heads at fromt: ? Secretary Lucille Bleeker and ?Captain Frank Malzone
May 15, 2012: William Downey - Served as Staff Sergeant in U.S. Army February 17, 1942 thru October 4, 1945 – Purple Heart, Bronze Star, European Theatre Victory Medal, Good Conduct Medal - Appointed PFD September 1, 1947 Badge # 45 - Engine 3, 10, 13 - Retired - September 1, 1977
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1949 Ball Book
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July 20, 2012: Captain Leon S Sopuch - Served as Sergeant in USMC February 3, 1942 thru February 3, 1946 – Presidential Pacific Theatre Medal - Appointed February 1, 1954 – Badge # 44 - E3 B-shift June 1, 1955; E5 B-shift November 16, 1955; Truck 2 B-shift September 15, 1963; E8 Tour 2 April 6, 1965; Truck 2, Tour 1 - Promoted to Captain May 1, 1968; 1971 Squad 1; 1972-1979 E-7 - Father of Leon J Sopuch
Herald
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Leon S Sopuch
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Squad 1 1967 at Headquarters - Left to right: Assistant Chief Joseph Dayspring, Captain Leon S Sopuch, firefighters Joe Guerrieri, Tommy Coppo and John Alexander
August 12, 2012: Deputy Chief Joe Pellegrino - Appointed September 27, 1963 - Retired 2002 - Brother of BC Terrance Pellegrino
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Herald courtesy Dennis Morrison
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Deputy Chief Joe Pellegrino
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1985 PS#9 fire - AC Joe Forbes, DC Pellegrino and AC Milt Katz
August 23 Herald courtesy Dennis Morrison
August 26, 2012 Herald courtesy Dennis Morrison
January 22, 2013: Rodney "Ronnie" Sasso U.S. Army February 4, 1960 thru April 27, 1962 Appointed September 27, 1963 - Badge # 254 - Truck 3 & 1, Fire Investigation - Retired 1990
January 24 Herald
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FF Ron Sasso
1968 ball Book - Men of Truck 3 with AeroChief Snorkel: L-R: Captain J Feeney, Captain Joseph Nardella, Frank Mancinelli, Robert C. Wagner, Douglas Sidney. On top: William R. Shortway, Thomas Kosman, Alfonso Francavilla, John Platt, Rodney A. Sasso
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November 4, 2013: Francis J "Frank" Bergen - U.S.M.C. – Sergeant February 17, 1949 thru October 8, 1952 - Temporary Fireman - July 1, 1953 - January 31, 1954 - Appointed February 1, 1954- Badge # 126 – Engine 10 - Retired August 1, 1983 - Died November 4, 2013
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Frank Bergen
Frank Bergen
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November 29, 2013: John Platt - Badge # 244 – Served U.S. Army (? dates) - Appointed September 27, 1963 – Engine 7, 3, Truck 3 - Retired April 1, 1989 - Father of FF John Platt
December 1 Herald
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John Platt
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December 25, 2013: DC Louis Rotella - Served as Sergeant US Army July 31, 1943 thru November 30, 1946: plane shot down over Germany & he was prisoner of war – appointed PFD December 1, 1947 - Badge #86 – Assigned engine 1 -Promoted to Lieutenant 1958 & in 1962 Captain (E9)
December 28 Hereald
BC Louis Rotella
1968 Ball Book - Men of Engine 9 at Southside with 1953 Seagrave Pumper: Front L-R: Captain Louis Rotella, Daniel Elkovich, William O'Neill. Middel row: Kenneth J. Foster (the 2nd African American Paterson fireman) and James Tasca. Up top: James E Davidson and Albert E. Graf.
Rotella POW photos
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FF Louis Rotella
1949 ball Book - FF L Rotella reporting for duty
1949 Ball Book
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January 2015 Lafayette Street 3rd alarm with FF Brian Canova at left
February 20, 2014: Captain Thomas Ottavino - Served as Petty Officer 3/c US Navy June 5, 1943 thru May 18, 1946 -Appointed PFD June 1, 1952 - Badge # 193 - assigned E-1, A-shift; September 1, 1952 Truck 2, A-shift; Chief's Aide Headquarters; September 1, 1963 1st Battalion, Tour 3 - Promoted to Captain March 1, 1970; E5 Tour 3 - Retired 1982
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~1955: L-R: Standing Mike Weiss (a future DC), Dan Dowd (future captain) , Bill Comer (future Chief), Pete Percarpio (future captain), Al Gallagher (future BC), Master Mechanic John Carroll - Kneeling BC Joe Dayspring (future AC), Tommy Ottavino (future captain), Chick Mandara, Joe Leonard (future DC)
circa 1957: Firefighters outside of Headquarters - L-R: FF Joe Leonard, FF Tommy Ottavino, Captain Al "Hoot" Novick (E5), FF Frank Malzone, and Captain Paul Peterson (Truck 2)
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1968 Ball Book - Headquarters - Left: Front to back: Assistant Chief Theodore Tice, Deputy Chief Michael Fleming, Assistant Chief Gerard Dugan, Assistant Chief William Comer. Right side rear to front: Chief Aides John Rankin, Fred Ricciardi, Joseph Leitner, James Johnstone, Thomas Ottavino, Pellegrino Vitale
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April 3, 2014: Greg Christensen - Served as Specialist 4th Class National Guard December 19, 1964 thru December 19, 1970 - Appointed PFD June 1, 1974
April 6 Herald courtesy Dennis Morrison
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F/F Greg Christensen
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June 21, 2014: Robert Salmanowitz, age 77, was the son of the late Nathan and the late Beatrice (Graf) Salmanowitz. He lived Pompton Lakes for 36 years and was formerly of Paterson. Mr. Salmanowitz served with pride and honor in the US Navy on the USS Intrepid from 1956 to 1958. He was a ship's photographer on the "Mighty I". Truly an Intrepid man, he was a member of the Former Crew Member's Association and he served, with the same pride and dedication, as a pas
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Treasurer and Secretary. Mr. Salmanowitz retired in 1986 from the City of Paterson, where he was a dedicated fire fighter for 25 years. Mr. Salmanowitz was the beloved husband of 53 years Jane (Vreeland) Salmanowitz; loving father of Robert, Jr. and the late Jane Kent; Dear brother of Jacqueline Mangini and James Salmanowitz; and caring uncle of many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his brothers, Donald, Nathan, Ira and Arthur Salmanowitz and his sister, Claire Carroll.
Robert was one of four Salmanowitz brothers to serve PFD - FOR THE SALMANOWITZ STORY CLICK HERE
Robert was one of four Salmanowitz brothers to serve PFD - FOR THE SALMANOWITZ STORY CLICK HERE
February 18, 2015: Captain Robert Renne - Served as Seaman in US Navy June 1961 thru June 1962 – Appointed PFD March 1, 1972
February 20 Hereald
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Robert Renne
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March 9, 2015: Deputy Chief Joseph V. Roca - Served US Army as Sergeant October 1950 thru October 1952 - Appointed PFD March 1, 1956 - Badge 69 - Captain May 1, 1965 - D/C November 1, 1969
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FF Joe Roca
DC Joe Roca
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1967: Men of Engine 6 at quarters with 1957 FWD pumper: In front L-R: Leo Shearn, Deputy Chief Paul Peterson, William E. Shortell, James J. Durkin. On apparatus are Kenneth West, Frank Limongi, Russel Goerner, and Captain Joseph V. Roca.
April 10, 2015: Chief's Aide Thomas "Tommy" L. Watterson - Served as Sergeant U.S. Army Sergeant August 1942 thru February 1946 –Asiatic/Pacific Medal - Appointed January 1, 1950 –Badge # 97 – Engine 1, 4, 7, 9, Chief’s Aide - Retired January 1, 1975 - Featured on cover of 1970 FMBA Ball Book
April 15 Herald
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April 17, 2015: Captain Stephen Sarappo – Served US Army September 8, 1959 thru September 8, 1962 - Appointed September 1, 1963 - Badge 107 - assigned E10 Tour 1; 1972 Squad 1 - Promoted to Captain May 1, 1973; 1988 E6 Tour 2; 1989 Chief’s Office
1967 Men of Engine Company 3: Front: L-R: Louis Ponstingel, Ralph DiGuglielmo, Captain Harry Huber, Captain Albert Horomanski. On apparatus John F. Kerr, Stephen J. Sarappo, Terrence Pelligrino, Vincent DeStefano.
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April 26, 2015: Captain Baptiste Rigamonti - Served Pipefitter Petty Officer 2nd Class- US Navy February 1952 thru February 1956 – Appointed February 1, 1962; Assigned E6, B-shift February 11, 1962; Assigned E6, Tour 2 September 1, 1963; Promoted to Captain May 16, 1975; Floating; 1979 E9; Assigned E6, Tour 1
April 28 Herald
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July 25, 2015: John C. Kedash Badge # 99 – U.S. Army July 13, 1943 thru Feb. 19, 1946 - Appointed December 1, 1947 – Engine 5, 11, Truck 1, Master Carpenter - Retired - June 1, 1983
July 26 Herald
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John Kedash
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1967: Shop at Lakeview FH: Master Mechanic John Carroll, Assistant Master Carpenter John Kedash, Assistant Master Mechanic Angelo Contini and Electrician Vince Scarmozza
July 30, 2015: Russell J. Stephenson – Served as Weapons Technician U.S. Navy July 4, 1942 thru January 5, 1946 – 6 Medals with 7 Battle Stars - Appointed PFD November 1, 1950 – Badge # 123 - Truck 1, Truck 2, Chief’s aide, Combustibles, Community Relations - Retired March 1, 1982
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July 30 Herald
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Russ Stephensen
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1967: HDQTS Chiefs office: Captain Ferd Pelleschi, Deputy Chief Solomon Reines, Chief Harold Kane, Captain Joe Bauer, Captain William Flynn, Francis Moore, Anthony Corsetto, Carmen Grossi, Russ Stephenson.
October 24, 2015: Vincent Scarmozza – Served as Technician 3rd Grade US Army March 24, 1943 thru February 1, 1946 - Appointed August 1, 1949 – Badge # 187 – Lineman Fire Alarm Telegraph – 1956 Acting Assistant Master Carpenter - Retired - September 1, 1980
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Master Mechanic John Carroll, Assistant Master Carpenter John Kedash, Assistant Master Mechanic Angelo Contini and Electrician Vince Scarmozzo
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December 23, 1967
January 11, 2016: Pellegrino C. "Bill" Vitale - Military Service: W.S.A.A.F. February 14, 1946 thru August 5, 1947 - Appointed September 1, 1952 – Badge # 200 - Engine 1, 5, 12, Chief’s Aide - Retired March 1, 1982
January 13 Herald
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Bill Vitale
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April 14, 2016: Thomas Geisler - Appointed February 21, 1987
April 19 Herald
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Thomas Geisler
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May 16, 2016: Edward J. Hancock - Appointed February 1, 1954 - Badge # 53 - Served as Corporal in US Army December 13, 1950 thru September 12, 1952 (Korea) - Served as FF at E5 - Captain E5 February 1, 1964 - Deputy Chief September 1, 1972 - Retired March 1, 1991 - Died May 16, 2017 - Son of Chief's Aid Edward A Hancock and father of DC Kevin Hancock - The 3 Hancocks had 100 years of continuous service
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June 9, 2016: John J Daly - Badge # 177 - U.S. Army April 26, 1955 thru April 25, 1957 - Appointed to PPD April 1, 1961 - Appointed PFD September 1, 1963 – Engine 9, 8, 6 - Retired May 1, 1986
June 12 Herald
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John J daly
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June 17, 2016: Vittorio “Vic” Diddio – Served as Corporal USMC October 3, 1956 thru September 30, 1958 – Appointed PFD February 1, 1961 – Badge # 64 – E4 – Promoted to Captain – Promoted to Battalion Chief - Retired 1994
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BC Diddio
Slater Street Firehouse - Interior 1961 - Walt Nicklaus & Ernie Biggs & Vic Didio
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July 22, 2016: Robert "Bobby Mac" McAllister - Appointed June 1, 1974
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Bobby McAllisotr
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February 26, 2017: B/C Thomas "Tommy" Coppo – Served as Airman 2/c US Air Force January 19, 1955 thru October 16, 1957 – Appointed PFD July 22, 1966 - Promoted to Captain May 16, 1975 – Promoted to Battalion Chief - Retired May 1, 1991 - Son of famed Truck 2 Captain Frank Coppo. Originally was with PPD.
B/C Tommy Coppo
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March 10 Wayne today - courtesy Dennis Morrison
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February 28 Herald
BC Coppo with EMT Mary Tititelli
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Father Frank and Son Thomas
1982 4th alarm on East 11th Street
June 1987 Broadway fire with BC Coppo
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May 11, 2017: Hubert "Hubbie" Donnellan - Served as Airman 2/c in US Air Force July 7, 1959 thru November 13, 1962 - Appointed PFD August 1, 1966 – Assignments E3, 1977 E6; 1979 E2; 1981 Truck 1 Tour 3; Promoted to Captain March 14, 1983; E6 Tour 1; 1985 E3
May 14 Herald
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Hubert Donnelan
1988 Ball Book
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June 26, 2017: Active F/F Kerry Rivera dies in accident
June 27 Herald courtesy dennis Morrison
Herald courtesy Dennis Morrison
January 29, 2018: Paul A. Villano - Served as PFC U.S. Army March 30, 1943 thru February 9, 1946 – Asiatic Pacific Medal - Paterson Police Chauffeur for 1.5 years (? dates), PPD Mechanic - 2 years (?dates) - Paterson FD - Temporary Fireman (? dates) - Permanent appointment - January 1, 1960 – Badge # 85 – Engine 11 & 2 - Retired March 1, 1985
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Paul Villano
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January 29, 2018: Captain John J. Sellitto - Served as Coroporal in US Army July 24, 1952 thru May 26, 1954 Korean Service Medal – Appointed PFD March 1, 1956 – Badge # 127 - assigned E-2 B-shift -Promoted to Captain January 1, 1969; E-2 Tour 1; E11
January 31 Herald
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Captain John Sellitto
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May 15, 2018: Richard J Shortway - U.S. Army Sergeant March 29, 1943 thru March 30, 1946 Purple Heart - Appointed August 1, 1947 - Badge # 129 – Engine 5, Truck 2, Chief’s Aide - Lieutenant - February 1, 1958 - Resigned March 9, 1960 - Became Assistant Chief in Sherriff's office
May 16 Herald
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Richard Shortway
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November 6, 2018: Michael Hancock - Appointed June 16, 1984 - Badge #79 - Served mostly at Ladder 3
FF MIchael Hancock
February 12, 2019: Frank T. Calamita - First served as a Paterson Police Officer (1956-63) Appointed PFD - September 1, 1963 - Badge # 130 - Engine 13, Truck 2 - Retired April 1, 1983 - Brother of LODD FF Thomas Calamita
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1968 Ball Book - Truck Company 2: In front L-R: Captain Richard Henches, Captain James R. Kehoe, Garry Kerkhoven, Leon Noorigian, Garrett Knorr. In rear L-R: , Vittorio (Vic) Diddio, Frank Calamita, Kenneth Shearn, and Ray Cusack
Courtesy Don Giaquinto
April 26, 2019: Jacob "Jake" Rozell Jr. – Appointed June 2, 1986 - Badge 316 - Retired July 1, 2011
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June 8, 2019: Roy Vonder Heyden - Appointed January 1, 1976 -
June 11 Herald
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1988 Ball Book
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July 2019: Deputy Joseph A. Murray -Appointed May 15, 1989, served Rescue 2 - Captain March 18, 1996; Battalion Chief November 21, 2003 EMS and Deputy Chief December 18, 2006 - Died July 26, 2019
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From the Record/Herald News
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August 28, 2019: Funeral procession of Captain Dexter Paul at Funeral Home
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December 15, 2019: Death retired Battalion Chief Arthur Menzo
December 17 Herald
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FF Arthur Menzo
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FF Menzo circa 1969 - unknown fire scene - Pumper in foreground is a '57 FWD and one in middle is E12 a 1951 FWD pumper.
Ed Banta, Paulie Villano George Asea & Artie Menzo 1970s
January 27, 2020: Joseph Parkin Sr. At time of his death was oldest living Paterson FF age 95. WWII Naval Veteran. Served at PPD. Appointed PFD December 1, 1957 - Served Engine 3 thru 1969 and then Truck 2, Tour 4 thru retirement in 1982. For more photos CLICK HERE
January 29 Herald
Bill Tompkins photos
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Joseph Parkin Sr.
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First Responder News March 2020
First Responder News March 2020
June 4, 2020: Gerald "Jerry" Behnke - Appointed July 20, 1998 - PFA President
June 10 Herald
FF Gerard Behnke with cousin FF (later a BC) Tom Behnke
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April 14, 2020: Captain John Ferrarella Sr - Served in USMC July 1969 until July 1975 with Viet Nam service Received national defense service medal - Captain Engine 6 - Died April 14, 2020. Below is Ron Bombaro video of funeral procession
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August 19, 2020: Assistant Chief Gabriel Aboyoun
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Bob Connell photos below
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October Issue 1st Responder News courtesy Bill Tompkins
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August 20, 2020: Captain John Minardi - Appointed PFD July 1, 1966; Promoted to Captain September 1, 1972 when he became PFD's first floating captain
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December 30, 2020: F/F Robert Baker - a Viet Nam veteran - Temporary appointment August 16, 1971 – Permanent appointment November 1, 1972
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March 3, 2021: James Shearn -U.S. Military from June 13, 1960 - May 21, 1962 - Appointed June 1, 1965 - Served at E9, E6 - Retired June 1, 1990
Engine 6 at Southside FH - Danny Elkovitch, Eddie James, Captain Jim Slootmaker & Jimmy Shearn
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FF James Shearn
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May 27, 2021: Retired BC Robert Poloniak - Appointed May 18, 1992 - Captain March 24, 2003 - Battalion Chief August 11, 2010 - Retired 2017
BC Robert Poloniak
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1st responder News July 2021 Issue
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August 24, 2021: Deputy Chief Joseph W Murray - Appointed June 1, 1974; served at Truck 3 Captain May 31, 1989; served briefly at E7 and then L3 - Battalion Chief July 28, 1998; (B1 and B3) - Deputy Chief June 6, 2005 Tour 4 - Cousin of DC Joseph A Murray and Father of DC Ryan P Murray
Joseph W Murray
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September 17, 2021: Thomas L Carr Naval Veteran - Appointed January 1, 1966 – Engine 1, Engine 3, Mechanic Shop (Assistant MM) – Retired July 1, 1991
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Engine 1 at Headquarters 1968 BB
Thomas Carr 1992 Ball Book
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November 15, 2021: Jose Bermudes - Appointed May 18, 1992
Jose Bermudes
November 16, 2021: Captain Louis Asbaty – Served as PFC in US Army March 1, 1951 thru March 13, 1953 – Appointed PFD August 1, 1956 –Badge # 150 - assigned E2 Aug 5, 1956; assigned E13 August 26, 1956; assigned E11 A-shift September 1, 1956; assigned Fire Alarm Office January 24, 1957; assigned E13 A-shift February, 1957; assigned E9 B-shift September 1, 1963; assigned E9 Tour 2 January 1964; assigned E7 Tour 1 - Promoted to Captain May 1, 1968: Combustibles 1971, E13 1976 - Brother of BC George Asbaty
Captain Luis Asbaty
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1967: Men of Engine 9 at Southside with 1953 Seagrave Pumper: James LaNeve, Walter Woodward, Captain Adolph P. Guzik, Captain John F. Grochowski. Middle row: Vincent Mandara, and Lou Asbaty. Up top Harry Stryker, John Elwood.
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November 13, 2021 - Leon Noorigian - U.S. Marines September 23, 1943 thru July 3, 1946 - Appointed March 1, 1958 - Badge # 233 - Engine 2, Truck 2 - Retired November 1, 1983
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1968 ball Book - Truck Company 2: In front L-R: Captain Richard Henches, Captain James R. Kehoe, Garry Kerkhoven, Leon Noorigian, Garrett Knorr. In rear L-R: , Vittorio (Vic) Diddio, Frank Calamita, Kenneth Shearn, and Ray Cusack
November 19, 2021: Albert Kahwaty - Initial appointment to Paterson Police Department - Appointed to PFD March 1, 1970 - Badge # 266 - Assignments: E-5 Tour 3; Mechanic's Shop; E-8 Tour 1 - Was President of Retired Paterson Firefighter's Association
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February 4, 2022: Battalion Chief Arnold "Vinnie" Frey - Appointed April 11, 1969 - Captain 1981 - BC 1992 - Retired 1999
BC Frey - 1992 ball Book
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BC Frey 1996 Ball Book
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April 6, 2022: Frank Malzone Jr. – Served as Airman US Navy March 2, 1951, thru March 1, 1955 - Temporary Appointment - August 16, 1955 - February 29, 1956; Assigned to Fire Alarm Office - Permanent Appointment April 1, 1956 – Badge 66 - Assigned E-5 June 1, 1956; E5, Tour 4 September 1, 1963 - Promoted to Captain May 1, 1970; Headquarters Office Staff (Photographer); 1972 Ambulance Division - Retired June 1, 1981
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Born in Paterson, Frank was a lifelong resident. He served his country as an Airman in the U.S. Navy during the Korean War. After his service, Frank worked as a Captain in the Paterson Fire Department until retirement. During his tenure, he was also the head of the Paterson Ambulance Corps and Emergency Management.
Frank was the beloved husband of the late Joan (nee: De Maria) Malzone (2011). Loving father of Frank Malzone, III of Toms River, NJ, Steven Malzone of Oak Ridge, NJ, and Michael Malzone of Lake Arial, PA. Dear grandfather of Holly Hibberd and her husband Kevin, Laura Malzone, Elizabeth Malzone-Bannon and her husband Kevin, Frank Malzone, IV and the late Crystal Ann Malzone (2005). Dearest great-grandfather of Gina Judd, Rhylee Hibberd and Landon Grey Ambler. Frank was predeceased by his sister Angela Giordano and is survived by many dear nieces and nephews. Funeral was April 11, 2022 from the Browning-Forshay Funeral Home in Hawthorne with entombment at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery Mausoleum in Totowa. 
Frank Malzone as FF of Engine 5 at 1967 Bridge Street fire
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Captain Frank Malzone Jr
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April 7, 2022: Captain James O'Neill - Served as Specialist 4/c in US Army December 28, 1965 thru December 27, 1969 - Good Conduct Medal, Sharpshooter Badge - Appointed to PFD February 17, 1969: Served Squad 1 and Truck 1 - Captain in 1991 - Retired 1994 - Brother of FF William O'Neill
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He was born and raised in Paterson residing there most of his life before moving to Clifton. James was a fireman with the Paterson Fire Department retiring with the rank of Captain. He enjoyed fishing, golfing, camping, gambling and loved his cat.
He is predeceased by his parents, William and Regina (nee Cusack) O’Neill; two brothers, William O’Neill and Robert O’Neill; and one sister, Regina Bernroth. He is survived by his spouse, Janice (nee Lombardi) Strub; children, Jessica Guercioni, Jennifer O’Neill, Danielle Makara, Richard Strub and Kristen Lombardi; grandchildren, Madison, Dylan, Grace, Joseph and Alexandra; one brother, Jerry O’Neill; and one sister, Judy Hausworth. |
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Firefighter
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Firefighter
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Squad 1 - Tour 4 Greg Christensen, Bill Henderson, Captain Larry Massa and Jimmy O'Neill
May 6, 2022: Captain Garrett Knorr served as Sergeant in National Guard November 1965 thru November 1963 – Appointed to PFD September 1, 1965; Assigned Truck 2, Tour 2 - September 13, 1965; 1971 E13; 1973 Truck 3 - Promoted to Captain January 3, 1981; Assignments E7, Tour 4 September 18, 1982; L1, Tour 2 1984 -1993. Retired 1994
Garrett Knorr
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May 19, 2022: Raymond Fitzpatrick served with the U.S. Navy July 7, 1949 thru July 7, 1950 - Became temporary Lineman December 1, 1956 - September 1, 1957 – Appointed September 1, 1957 as a Lineman. Made a temporary senior lineman in 1963 and a permanent in November 1, 1968. When EVRS began, he was assigned to the FD on August 15, 1977 - Retired September 1, 1984.
Linemn Ray Fitzpatrick
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1958
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1967 photo: Superintendent Donald Walker and linemen Alfred Romeo, Daniel Walsh, John J. Dougherty, Raymond Fitzpatrick and E Scerback
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May 22, 2022: Battalion Chief Phil Bartolotto - Appointed June 20, 1983 - Captain 1989 - BC 1996 - Retired August 1, 2009.
1988m Ball Book
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Captain Bartolotto
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BC Bartolotto
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June 17, 2022: Deputy Chief Eugene Mariani – Served as PFC US Army February 10, 1943 thru February 9, 1946 – Appointed PFD September 1, 1947 – Badge # 89 - Promoted to Lieutenant in 1957, Captain in 1961, Deputy Chief in 1965 - Retired 1975 - He was the son of Captain Joseph Mariani, brother of Assistant Chief Wilbert Mariani and the father of deceased FF Louis Mariani
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DC E Mariani on roof
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DC E Mariani on roof
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Mariani Family of Firefighter
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September 10, 2022: Deputy Chief Dennis DiGuglielmo – Served PFC US Army September 29, 1961 thru September 27, 1963 - Appointed PFD May 1, 1964 - Badge# 259 - Served Truck 2, Tour 3 - Retired as Tour 4 Commander February 1, 2003
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DiGuglielmo, Dennis age 79 of Waretown at rest in Waretown on September 10, 2022. Beloved husband of Debra (nee Katz) DiGuglielmo. Loving father of Carole Fredrickson and her husband John and the late Dennis Ralph DiGuglielmo (1983). Dear grandfather of Ryan Fredrickson and his wife Laura, Brenna Fredrickson and Jamie Fredrickson. Great-grandfather of Francisco and Mariana. Brother of Ralph DiGuglielmo and his wife Josie. Step-father of Michael Pearsall and his wife Lindsey and Christopher Pearsall and his partner Sara Gudis. Step-grandfather of Eleanor and Aiden. Also survived by many cousins. Born in Paterson, he lived most of his life in Paterson before moving to Waretown thirteen years ago. He was the Deputy Fire Chief for the Paterson Fire Department, for thirty-eight years before retiring. He was an Army veteran. Dennis was a member of the NJ State FMBA and the Paterson Fire Officers Association. He was a member of the Passaic County Chapter of Police and Fire Emeralds Society and the Fidelians of America. He was also a member of the Fish Hawks.
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1967 Men of Truck Company 2 (1962 Pirsch Tilller): In front L-R: Captain Joseph Hoffmann, Roger Dumas, Dennis DiGuglielmo, Edward Gurlacz, and Captain Joseph Bakanauskas. In rear Leon Sopuch, Patrick C. Tuohey, Mike Ross, Vincent Valois.
Engine 2 FF Ted Galus, Captain DiGuglielmo, FF Len Saia
Captain Harry Huber and FF Dennis DiGuglielmo
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Deputy Chief
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November 19, 2022: Phil Mendillo. He served the U.S.M.C. as a Corporal -September. 27, 1947 thru September 28, 1951 - Received Purple Heart - Appointed to PFD December 1, 1961 - Badge # 122 - Served at Engine 3, Truck 3 - Retired July 1, 1987. He was the brother of FF Joseph Mendillo and father of FAO dispatcher Patrick Mendillo.
Phil Mendillo
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January 12, 2023: Captain John Martin -, He served as E4 US Army April 24, 1972 thru April 18, 1974 - He was appointed to PFD on November 26, 1979. He attained Captain rank on Feb 23, 1990; Served Engine1 Tour 2
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Engine 1
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July 3, 2023: Chief of Department John A. Mauro Sr. - Appointed September 27, 1963 - July 1, 1972: Captain - October 1977 Battalion Chief - March 1984 - Director of Emergency Medical Services - June 1987 Deputy Chief - April 1990 Chief Engineer - January 1996 Retired - January 2006 Deputy Director Office of Emergency Management Paterson, NJ
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Dedication Plaque on Engine 7 pumper
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BC John Mauro - Director of Emergency Services
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July 9, 2023: Robert Monteyne: appointed July 1, 1969. Fired for malingering and the reinstated via Civil Service after a suit against PFD
1971 Ball Book photo
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July 22, 2023: Kenneth West passes at age 91. He served in U.S. Navy from November 26, 1947 thru November 26, 1951 - Became a temporary Fireman from April 16, 1955 thru March 1, 1956 - Appointed to Paterson Police Dept. - March 1, 1956 thru September 30, 1956 – and then appointed to PFD - October 1, 1956 – Served at Engines 2 & 6 - Retired April 1, 1984 - Died July 22, 2023 - Father of Captain Ken West & Grandfather of FF Steven West
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October 28, 2023: DC William Shortway - Appointed May 1, 1963 – Served US Army August 1956 thru August 1962 (2 years active duty) - Served Truck 3 B shift, Truck 3 Tour 3, Captain July 1, 1972 at Engine 3 of Tour 1 - Combustibles July 5, 1977- Battalion Chief September 16, 1978 - Deputy Chief December 23, 1988 - Retried May 1, 1989
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1971 PFD photo
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November 26, 2023: Retired Firefighter James “Jimmy” Bradley, He was Appointed June 12, 1995 - Served at Engine 1 - Retired June 30, 2020 and was the brother of Retired Captain Joseph Bradley.
FF James Bradley
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Bradley Brothers at Engine 1
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December 10, 2023: Captain Alvin Cooper: Served as Specialist US Army January 29, 1960 thru January 28, 1963 –Appointed PFD May 1, 1964 to E5 Tour 1, July 1, 1964 E-1, Tour 2, February 26, 1966 E3, Tour 2, E7 Tour 1, Truck 3 – Promoted to Captain (floating) on April 29, 1978, 1984 Truck 3 Tour 3 - Retired May 1, 1989
Alvin Cooper as a Fireman
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1989 Ball Book
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January 1, 2024: James "Jim Eifler" - a major contributor to the Paterson Fire History website and a civilian awardee of the prestigious PFD Chief John Stagg Meritorius Service Award in 2019.
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Chief John Stagg Meritorius Service Award - L-R: Chief Brian McDermott, Dr Thomas Dayspring, DC Kevin Hancock and Jum Eifler
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March 6, 2024: Firefighter Barry Katz, appointed July 1, 1983 served at Engine 7. He retired in 2004. He was the son of famed Assistant Chief Milt Katz.
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March 17, 2024: Captain Robert J. Embrich – Served as Technical Sergeant US Army April 4, 1955 thru January 15, 1958, Recalled to Military Service October 30, 1961 thru February 16, 1962 – Appointed to PFD June 16, 1961 – Badge # 105 - assigned E2, B-shift; September 1, 1963 assigned E2, Tour 2 - Promoted to Captain March 1, 1970; E6 Tour 1 - He was the brother of deceased FF John "Jack" Embrich.
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Captain Embrich
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Engine 2 on Highland Street in 1968 - Captain Nate Salmanowitz, Joe Bushnauskas, Thomas J. Calamita, Captain Joseph J. Daly, William Leonard, Edward Zaretsky, Robert Embrich, Elliott M. McGuire
March 18, 2024: Firefighter Robert Allen, appointed May 18, 1992 and assigned Bade #387. Was a long time Master of PFD Ceremonies. He served at Engine 1 on Tours 2 and 4 as well as Ladder 1 Tour 3. Last served at E7/RAC Unit.
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He was the son of Retired Battalion Chief Edward Allen and brother-in-law of Tour Commander Deputy Chief Matthew Hyman, FF Allen held multiple elected seats in the Paterson Firefighters Association during his career. He was also Chairman of the Legislative Committee for the State FMBA. Bobby was an exemplary union member and an institution of knowledge and resolution. His work with the Legislative Committee helped to enact multiple bills within the state.
Funeral Home Obituary
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Born in Paterson 1960 and a graduate of Don Bosco Tech in 1978, Bobby was appointed to the Paterson Fire Department on May 18, 1992, and, in the 32 years since, left a mark that will never be forgotten, sharing his wit, wisdom, skills, and so much more with generations of firefighters.
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Bobby, a responder on September 11, 2001, and his service to the Paterson Fire Department, as well as to his union, both locally and statewide, will never be forgotten. In a recent presentation from his brother and sister firefighters Bobby was praised for his “friendship, service, and sacrifice” and celebrated for his ability to always keep cool and calm, whether at a fire scene or in the firehouse. His cool demeanor extended to countless public events where Bobby was often called on to serve as emcee, or impart knowledge, his style one that afforded him the ability to make a joke, sometimes at his own expense, and absorb the laughter, or lack thereof when a one-liner fell flat. No matter the quality of the humor, when Bobby spoke all within earshot listened. A storyteller at heart, Bobby’s ability to weave incredible detail, imagery, and wit into the lore he shared meant that being in his presence would always be a memorable experience.
Bobby’s unique style, diplomat like qualities, sense of fairness, and unique ability to extend love to all he came into contact with, made him an ideal labor leader, something he wore as a badge of honor, serving in several positions, including as President, both within FMBA Local 2, and at the state level where his more than a decade of work as the Chairman of the NJFMBA’s Legislative Committee helped shape countless pieces of legislation impacting thousands of career firefighters and retirees that may never have known his name but live and work better and safer because of his work.
Bobby’s unique style, diplomat like qualities, sense of fairness, and unique ability to extend love to all he came into contact with, made him an ideal labor leader, something he wore as a badge of honor, serving in several positions, including as President, both within FMBA Local 2, and at the state level where his more than a decade of work as the Chairman of the NJFMBA’s Legislative Committee helped shape countless pieces of legislation impacting thousands of career firefighters and retirees that may never have known his name but live and work better and safer because of his work.
PFD Appreciation with Ladders 1 and 2 as backdrop
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Statement by Congressman Bill Pascrell
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Funeral at St John's Cathedral March 26, 2024
August Edition 1st Responder News NJ Edition
June 5, 2024: James Jurewicz - First appointed to Paterson Police Department on October 1, 1974 and then moved to PFD on August 11, 1980. At PFD served at Engine 2 on Highland Street and then Truck 3 at Riverside Firehouse. In 1981he once again transferred back to Paterson Police Department.
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July 20, 2024: FF Lynn "Bulldog" Tolbert - Served at USMC - Appointed April 1, 1992 - Served at L3 in Riverside firehouse. His brother Wendell was also a Paterson Firefighter also appointed April 1, 1992. FF Tolbert left the department in August 2006
1993 Ball Book
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1995 Ball Book
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2004 Ball Book
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For a rescue on July 12, 1994 - Lynn (Wendell) Tolbert of Ladder 3 receives the VFW of NJ Outstanding FF Award of the Year
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December 1, 1995 at 2nd alarm dwelling fire at 186 Mill Street
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Fire scene action - Smoked up
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Photo in retirement
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July 27, 2024: Robert Gatto - He wore Badge # 89 after being appointed on December 1, 1963 – He served at Engine 3 (Tour 4) and Retired on March 1, 1989.
1963 Appointment photo
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1988 Ball Book photo
1963 Appointment photo
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July 30, 2024: Captain Anthony "Tony" Camal - appointed July 6, 1998 and had badge 452 and served at Ladder 3. He became a Captain on December 6, 2007 and served at EMS-90, Engine 3 and Ladder 1. He retired April 1, 2013.
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FF Louie Cruz, Captain Josef Koehler, FF Anthony Camal, FF Pete Lobosco, FF Ascary Rios
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From Wikipedia - Anthony Camal was an American teacher, high school coach and former PFD Firefighter who was a national and international competitor in judo. Camal was originally instructed in Judo by his father Bill Camal and Camal earned a bronze medal in the 1989 National Championships in Judo. He was a seven-time New Jersey state champion in Judo and won the World Police and Firefighters championships in 2001, and took silver in 2003. Camal held the Annual Camal Judo North Eastern Championship for at least 14 years. As a coach he produced many junior national, senior national and international competitors. Camal received a 2012 Firefighter Award for Valor from the PFD and injured his back as a result of his duties as a firefighter
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December 2, 2024: Edward "Eddie" James - Badge # 118 – Appointed on November 1, 1969 – Served at Engines 12 and 6 -- Retired December 1, 1994
FF Edward James - 1971
Civilian Photo
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1988 Photo FF Edward James
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January 3, 2025: Leonard Saia - Appointed September 1, 1963 - Badge # 250 - Captain April 29, 1978 (Served at E8) and BC: September 21, 1991 (Provisional) and permanent on December 4, 1991 - Retired 1995 - Brother of Captain Joseph Saia
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1968 Ball Book - Men of Engine Company 11 with 1953 Seagrave: Front row L-R: Captain Patsy A. Fusaro, Captain Fred Armona (LODD), Robert Lenoy, Nick Ricciardi, and Joseph Mendillo In rear on apparatus are John Minardi, Leonard Saia, Patsy J. Giglio.
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Engine 2 FWD with Ted Galus, Dennis DiGuglielmo and Leonard Saia
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Captain Appointment
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January 11, 2025: John Elwood – Served as Corporal in US Army February 21, 1951 thru February 23, 1953 – Appointed PFD March 1, 1960 – Badge # 242 – Served E9 Tour 3 – Promoted Captain July 1, 1972 Squad 1 Tour 2 – Battalion Chief April 29, 1978 - Retired April 1, 1985
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1967: Men of Engine 9 at Southside with 1953 Seagrave Pumper: James LaNeve, Walter Woodward, Captain Adolph P. Guzik, Captain John F. Grochowski. Middle row: Vincent Mandara, and Lou Asbaty. Up top Harry Stryker, John Elwood.
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February 19, 2025: Harold “Howie’ T. Morcom - Badge # 178 - Served in U.S. Army September 30, 1954 thru September 29, 1956 – Appointed to PFD on September 1, 1963 – Served Truck 2, Engine 12, 13, 5 and 8 – Retired April 1, 1994 - Founding member of the Retired Paterson Fire Association
FF Howie Morcom
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1971 Howie Morcom civilian photo
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1968 Ball Book
March 25, 2025: James Ramundo Served as Sergeant in US Army January 1959 thru August 1962 - Appointed to PFD May 1, 1964 - Served at Engine 6 - Promoted to Captain April 29, 1978 - Provisional appointment to BC September 21, 1991 and permanently December 4, 1991 - Retired February 1, 1995
1982 Ball Book BC James Ramundo
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Captain Ramundo - May 11, 1982 fire scene - East 11th Street
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1967: Men of Engine 6 at quarters with 1957 FWD pumper: L-R on floor Captain George Stanton, Captain John C. Walton, Norman Morley, Frank Giardino, Baptiste Rigamonte. On apparatus John Daly, James Ramundo, Thomas E. Bolen.
1970's: Award presentation at Engine 6 quarters to Captain George Stanton - L-R: FMBA President Red Mosca, William McVey, Robert Graf, James Ramundo, John Daly, Thomas Boland, Captain Staton and Chief Kane
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homas Boland, Willliam McVey, John Daly, James Ramundo, Robert Graf, Captain George Stanton, Chief Harold Kane - courtesy Helen Stanton King
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