| Hanover Township Fire Department Mourns the Passing of Life Member William “Billy” Lynch
It is with great sadness that the Hanover Township Fire Department announces the passing of Life Member William “Billy” Lynch, affectionately known to many throughout the fire service as “Uncle Bill.”
Billy proudly served the Hanover Township Fire Department and the Hanover Township community for more than 50 years, leaving behind a legacy of dedication, friendship, tradition, and countless memories.
Throughout his many years in the fire service, Billy was active with the Breslau Hose Company #5 and Franklin Hose Company #4. His involvement extended well beyond Hanover Township. Billy participated in Fire School and was a longtime member of the Six County Firemen’s Association, where he became a familiar face at conventions and gatherings throughout the region.
Those who attended Six County conventions with Billy will undoubtedly remember his larger-than-life personality and, of course, his willingness to belt out in song when the occasion called for it. Billy had a story for nearly every occasion, and anyone who spent time around the firehouse knew that “Uncle Bill” could keep you entertained with tales from decades of fire service history.
Billy also held his brothers and friends at the Garfield Fire Department in Garfield, New Jersey, very near and dear to his heart for many years. His connection to the New Jersey fire service also included being named an Honorary Member of Park Row Hose Co. #3 of Wallington, New Jersey.
His service to the community wasn't limited to answering alarms or attending fire service functions. Generations of local families may remember Billy from an entirely different role. For many years, he brought the magic of Christmas to children while portraying Santa Claus for the Breslau Fire Company, as well as during the Christmas season at the former Boston Store.
For more than half a century, Billy represented the camaraderie and brotherhood upon which the fire service is built. He witnessed generations of firefighters come through the doors, saw apparatus and firehouses change, and watched the fire service evolve all while remaining part of the traditions that connect those generations together.
While we mourn his passing, we are grateful for the many years we were fortunate enough to call Billy one of our own.
The Hanover Township Fire Department extends its deepest condolences to Billy’s family, friends, and his extended fire service family throughout Pennsylvania and New Jersey.
Rest easy, Uncle Bill. Thank you for more than 50 years of service, friendship, stories, songs, and memories.
Life Member William “Billy” Lynch
Hanover Township Fire Department
More than 50 Years of Dedicated Service
Gone, but never forgotten. |
