Hank as we all knew him was very much a “people person”.  If you didn’t like him after becoming acquainted with him then you had a real problem.  He was dedicated and hard working at whatever he was involved in doing.  He gave his all to the job.

            Hank became a member of our fire department team in April 1968 while still serving his country as a United States Marine.  Except for a short period when he was transferred, he served with the department.  He filled most of the offices in the volunteer group and for 19 years, up until 1993, he served in the capacity of Fire Chief.  One thinks of that as a glamorous, prestigious office, but it also carries with it hours of drills, paperwork, answering fire calls day and night, attending fire schools, as well as associational responsibilities.  Hank served well and was a friend to us as well as the other county volunteer groups.

            Hank enjoyed the fun and fellowship of our fire department get togethers, like our annual oyster roast and our Christmas party at Helen’s Kitchen.

            Hank was no stranger to honor.  He received several medals and awards in the United States Marine Corp while serving in Vietnam, as well as certificates and plaques in the local fire department and Fireman’s Association.

            We miss him very much.  At fire calls and meetings there is a vacant seat and an empty place in our hearts.  It’s like having an empty place at the table when a family member is not there.  To his wife, Ruth, and children we offer our sincere sympathy and many thanks for sharing their husband and father with us.  Forever and always we will miss him, but we are thankful to God for sending him our way.