Richard Zadorozny, 66, of Eatontown, New Jersey, died July 11, 2016. Rich was a member of the Eatontown Volunteer Fire Department for 48 years. On the evening of July 10, he responded to a call for a smell of natural gas. Several hours later, emergency services were called to his home, where he died of a heart incident.

Rich was born in Long Branch, New Jersey, on January 11, 1950. He was a lifelong resident of Eatontown. Rich graduated from Red Bank Catholic High School in Red Bank, New Jersey in 1968. From age 13 until age 20, he worked at Old Orchard Country Club Eatontown. While working there, he found a passion for playing golf almost every day. For over 30 years, Rich worked with various telecommunication companies, starting with New Jersey Bell, then AT&T, and finally retiring from AVAYA in 2001.

Rich served the community as a life member of both the Eatontown Fire Department and First Aid Squad. He served as fire chief in 1983. At the time of his death, Rich was the chief engineer, and he knew the engines inside and out. For 30 years, Rich served as the company secretary. He served as the secretary to the Relief and Exempt Associations, as well as serving on the Fire Prevention Board. Rich was considered one of the most dedicated members of the department. He made over 90% of all fire calls for many years, right up until his last call. Rich was known to have a calm demeanor. He was the “go to guy,” often referred to as a walking, talking encyclopedia of the fire department. He shared his many years of knowledge with the younger firefighters.

For 45 years, Rich was married to his wife, Joyce, whom he met in grammar school. He was also survived by two daughters and their husbands, Janice and Chris Glass and Susan and Gary Miffitt, along with four grandchildren, Hailey, Logan, and Gavin Miffitt, and Tyler Glass.

Rich enjoyed woodworking, expanding his hobby into a creative craft business. Rich’s woodwork could be found at craft boutiques and shows throughout New Jersey.

His favorite vacation spot was Disney World, and he shared his love by having his grandchildren join him on numerous trips.

Rich will be remembered by many as “the glue that held the fire department together.” His presence and dedication will be missed more than words can express by the family‚ friends, and firefighters he leaves behind.