The Rockville Centre Fire Department held its annual memorial service at Firefighters Memorial Park on Sunday, honoring seven members who passed away in the last year—Joseph Lagudi, Carl Boegel Jr., Charles Krahm, Thomas O’Boyle, Anthony Papalia, Donald Lister, and Ian Bernard.
“Today marks the most important day on the calendar for the Rockville Centre Fire Department, where we mourn our brothers and sisters who answered their last alarm over the past year,” Rockville Centre Fire Department Chief Scott Mohr said. “These 7 dedicated members that we lost in the past year, served a combined total of over 300 years to the community and its residents. They will be missed.”
The department commemorates each firefighter’s “last alarm” to recognize their service and legacy.
Honorary Chief Joseph Lagudi
Joseph Lagudi, 90, dedicated 51 years to the Rockville Centre Fire Department, joining Defender Hose Company No. 1 in 1972. A U.S. Army National Guard veteran who served for 22 years, Lagudi held various leadership roles, including Second Lieutenant, First Lieutenant, and Captain of Hose Company No. 1. His sons, Michael and Charlie, also served as captains, continuing the family’s commitment to service. In 2013, Lagudi was named Honorary Chief. His legacy lives on through his family and the department.
Honorary Chief Carl Boegel Jr.
Carl Boegel Jr., 82, was a member of Defender Hose Company No. 1 for 57 years. He joined the department in 1967 after serving 22 years in the U.S. Navy. Boegel held several leadership positions, including lieutenant and captain of the Fire Police Squad, and was a delegate to various firefighter associations. His dedication earned him the title of Honorary Chief. Boegel’s lifelong service leaves a lasting impact on the fire department and the broader community.
Honorary Chief Charles Krahm
Charles Krahm, 64, was a member of Defender Hose Company No. 1 for 47 years. He joined the department in 1977 and became an essential figure, serving as captain from 2015 to 2018. Krahm played a key role in establishing the Rockville Centre Junior Firefighter Program and was co-chairman of the program until his passing. Many will remember his dedication to the department and mentoring young firefighters.
Ex-Captain Thomas O’Boyle
Thomas O’Boyle, 78, served Defender Hose Company No. 1 for 56 years. He joined in 1968 and rose through the ranks, becoming captain in 1973. O’Boyle was instrumental in acquiring new equipment for the department, including overseeing the introduction of the 1975 Mack engine. Recognized as a life member in 2018, O’Boyle’s leadership and contributions to the department spanned more than five decades.
Honorary Chief Anthony Papalia
Anthony “Pappy” Papalia, 90, spent 71 years serving Reliance Hose Company No. 3. He joined the fire department in 1952 and held leadership positions such as captain from 1959 to 1964. Known for his humor, dedication, and leadership, Papalia earned the title of Honorary Chief in 2002. His commitment to both his family and the fire department left a lasting mark on the community.
Ex-Captain Donald Lister
Donald “Donny” Lister was a member of Reliance Hose Company No. 3 for 56 years. He joined in 1968 and served as captain from 1977 to 1979. Lister was known for his calm leadership and quick wit, as well as his love of fly fishing and practical jokes. His service and strong leadership left a deep impression on his fellow firefighters and the community.
Firefighter Ian Bernard
Ian Bernard served with Alert Engine Co. No. 2 for 41 years, joining in 1983. Bernard was dedicated to learning and took numerous classes throughout his career. He joined the Fire Police Squad in 1996, furthering his commitment to his community’s safety. Known for his love of history and passion for firefighting, Bernard’s presence in the department will be sorely missed.
The Rockville Centre Fire Department continues to honor the memory of these seven firefighters, celebrating their lives of dedication, service, and leadership. Their legacies will endure in the department and the community they served so faithfully.
