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Remembering
Wilbur A. Ritter
Sayville Fire Department — New York
Classification: Volunteer
Rank: Fire Police
Date of Death: August 28, 2006
Age: 78
Wilbur was a man committed to helping
people in whatever capacity he
could, and his devotion to his family,
the Sayville Fire Department,
and numerous firematic organizations
was a testament to the
remarkable person that he
was. He joined the Sayville
Fire Department in 1947
and dedicated nearly
60 years to his department
and community.
Following in his father’s
footsteps, he was an active
yet humble firefighter
who could be counted
on to help with anything
that was asked of him.
His family was extremely
important to him as well.
His wife, Evelyn, and sons,
Michael and Peter, formed
the backbone of his existence.
His insistence on taking care of
his parents upon his honorable
discharge from the Army led him
to a long bachelorhood and favorite
son status with his mother. Wilbur could
remember every family member and their relations
without hesitation, and was constantly sharing
the information. He believed that knowing one’s history
would guide their future in the right direction.
Wilbur was neither a line officer nor chief, but he
commanded the respect of all members young
and old with his willingness to do all of the necessary
work but not accept any of the acclaim. He
served as Resolute Hose Company treasurer for 35
years, department president for two separate terms
and finally went on to become fire police captain.
Neither age nor health could stop him from
responding, and many times he had to
be reminded that he had fulfilled all
requirements and could relax. Even
prostate cancer did not prevent
him from his duties, and only
convinced him to do more
once he overcame it. His
commitment to local volunteer
fire organizations was
equally important to him,
and he rose up to become
Suffolk County Volunteer
Firemen’s Association
president and FASNY
trustee. He served as secretary
and treasurer of
numerous organizations
for a few decades, often
juggling bankbooks and
meeting minutes while taking
on more tasks. Traveling
several hours for meetings
and conventions was common,
and he thoroughly enjoyed the
time he spent doing it.
Wilbur suffered a fatal heart attack
on August 28, 2006, while responding to a
reported roof emergency. Even in his time of need,
he was most concerned about the posters going up
for the blood drive he ran and making sure that his
faithful dog, Shadow, would get walked. He was
named Sayville Fire Department’s 2006 Fireman of
the Year. Everyone who knew Wilbur will forever
remember his wonderful demeanor, always smiling
and telling jokes that weren’t the best, but were
well-intended. His humility and enthusiasm for life
were his finest qualities, and he will always be dearly
missed by all whose lives he touched.