Assembly Resolution No. 856 BY: M. of A. Manktelow HONORING the life and heroic actions of Daniel S. DeWolf, renowned firefighter, devoted father and grandfather, and distinguished member of his community WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to convey its grateful appreciation and heartfelt regret in recognition of the loss of a courageous and hardworking firefighter who dedicated his purposeful life and career in faithful service to both his family and the residents of New York State; and WHEREAS, It is with profound sadness that this Legislative Body records the tragic and untimely passing of Firefighter Daniel S. DeWolf, who died in the line of duty on Sunday, January 21, 2024, at the age of 52; and WHEREAS, A 32-year veteran of the Fairville Fire Department, past Chief Daniel S. DeWolf served with dedication, loyalty, and compassion, truly devoting his life and career to helping others; and WHEREAS, Daniel S. DeWolf was born on May 10, 1971, in Newark, New York, to Edward and Betty (Fisher) DeWolf; and WHEREAS, A devoted and lifelong local resident, Daniel S. DeWolf attended Newark High School, during which time he honed his skilled trade in welding and fabricating at BOCES before graduating in 1989; and WHEREAS, Throughout his illustrious career, Daniel S. DeWolf served as a dedicated welder and fabricator, most recently showcasing his excellence at Halstead Machine, however, it was his selflessness and humble nature that truly defined him; and WHEREAS, Daniel S. DeWolf was a silent force for good, consistently helping others without seeking recognition; he demonstrated this generous spirit as a 32-year member of the Fairville Fire Department, where his contributions were immeasurable, earning him the prestigious Fireman of the Year Award multiple times; he tirelessly undertook various tasks for the department during his long and impactful tenure; and WHEREAS, A man of indomitable faith and dedication, Daniel S. DeWolf was an active member of the Newark Assembly of God; his devotion to his church truly reflected his solid values and principles; and WHEREAS, Furthermore, in his spare time, Dan found joy in riding his motorcycle and pursuing his passion for hunting; and WHEREAS, While he was passionate about many things, above all his greatest passion was spending time with his cherished family, especially his beloved granddaughter who will forever hold a special place in his heart; and WHEREAS, Daniel S. DeWolf is survived by his son, Chet DeWolf; granddaughter, Addyson DeWolf; mother, Betty DeWolf; siblings, Edward Jr. (Renee) DeWolf and Greg (Tammy) DeWolf; and a sister-in-law, Carol Austin; as well as nieces and nephews, Allison, Mitchell (Alissa), McKenzie, Aliza, Christina, Rebecca, Jeffrey, and Aleisha; and many friends; he was predeceased by his father, Edward Sr.; and a brother, Jeffrey Austin; and WHEREAS, Daniel S. DeWolf's infinite selflessness and benevolence will shine on through his family's vivid and happy memories; his life of service and strength will forever serve as a beacon of love, light and hope to the countless lives he touched; and WHEREAS, Armed with a humanistic spirit and imbued with a sense of compassion, Daniel S. DeWolf leaves behind a legacy which will long endure the passage of time and will remain as a comforting memory to all who were privileged to have known and loved such an amazing man; he will be deeply missed and truly merits the grateful tribute of this Legislative Body; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to honor the life and heroic actions of Daniel S. DeWolf, and to express its deepest condolences to his family; and be it further RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be transmitted to the family of Daniel S. DeWolf.