Former East Rockaway Fire Department Chief ‘Big Mike’ Oneta dies at 80

Former East Rockaway Fire Department Chief Michael “Big Mike” D. Oneta died on June 13. He was 80.

Oneta was born on January 25, 1932 in Manhattan and grew up in Bensonhurst, Brooklyn. He joined the Army in 1949 and served in the Korean War as a sergeant and a cook. He was eventually stationed in Germany where met love of his life, Ellie. They were married on May 22,1954.

After the war, Oneta went to work as a Longshoreman in Brooklyn. In February of 1966, the Onetas moved to East Rockaway, where they raised their children Loretta and Michael.

On September 25, 1970, Oneta joined Vigilant Engine Co. No. 1 of the East Rockaway Fire Department. He was on the parade and drill committee from 1971-80; served as the warden, 1972-74; was lieutenant in 1974 and 75 was captain, 1976-78; became warden again,1978-80, and deputy chief,1980-83. In 1983 he was elected to chief of the department.

Oneta remained active member, spending his summers at his favorite campgrounds in upstate New York. He wintered in East Rockaway, where he could always be found at home with his wife or at the firehouse every Sunday morning. 

“He will be sorely missed,” said East Rockaway Fire Department Chief Steve Torborg.

Besides his wife and children, Oneta leaves behind his beloved grandchildren Samantha and Anthony.

Oneta was waked at Perry’s Funeral Home. Services were held at St. Raymond’s Church, and he was buried at Greenfield Cemetery.