Submitted by his daughter
Ex-Captain John Husser was sworn into the Rockville Centre Fire Department in July of 1969‚ when he was 19 years old. His company was Alerts Engine Co. 2. John served as a Warden‚ Safety Officer‚ Board of Instruction Delegate and led the Color Guard for many years. John was honored with the 2005 Town of Hempstead Firematic Award‚ posthumously‚ on October 19‚ 2005. John was an active firefighter and a leader for 35 years up until his untimely death between late June 27th and early June 28th‚ 2005 after responding to four calls earlier that day. John was given a beautiful funeral with full honors.
John was one of those firefighters others looked to for guidance and help. At a call‚ John was always sure to keep an eye on his crew‚ making sure everyone was safe and accounted for. He would drop anything at a moment’s notice to help out a friend‚ even if it meant inconveniencing himself. I recall a letter written by a close friend to the members of Alerts Engine Co. 2 that read as follows;
When John joined‚ there was no OSHA telling us how to dress‚ there were no benefits to speak of‚ but this was not an issue for him. John VOLUNTEERED to join‚ accepting all the duties that he was asked to perform. He did not volunteer to come out only when it wasn’t raining or snowing‚ only when it wasn’t too hot or too cold‚ only when he wasn’t having a barbeque or a date with Angela. He volunteered for the whole enchilada!
John’s loud laugh‚ his quick wit‚ his enjoyment of a good joke‚ or a gentle jab is what will be missed and remembered. Our loss is deep and painful. He was a friend to all‚ whether you just met him or knew him for 35 years. But it was with his beloved wife Angela that he could not be without. He joins her now where they are watching over us and if you listen hard enough you will hear him saying HA HA‚ no no no no no no‚ Get outta here‚ and‚ finally‚ you’re killing me.
We love you and miss you and will keep you with us every day! Until we meet again.
Submitted by a member of his department
Captain Husser was the definition of a dedicated Firefighter. His exemplary 35 year career in our department is one that is a model for new members. His knowledge‚ courage and experience taught all who followed him how to do our dangerous job. His desire to be first due to alarms was with him until the end as he responded to 4 alarms on the day that he died.
His friendly personality‚ strong sense of humor and constant presence at the firehouse will be sorely missed. John was one in a million……..
As Blood Drive time comes, John Husser was always one of the first to be in line to give. He was first in line for any need of his beloved alerts.
– Thomas Cooleen