LAKE HIAWATHA — R. Deckenback Drive was unveiled today at the Rockaway Neck Volunteer First Aid Squad.
Robert (Bob) Deckenback had been the backbone of Rockaway Neck for many years. He dedicated about 2/3 of his life to the organization and made a lasting impression in both the squad and EMS as a whole throughout New Jersey. His work and dedication to the squad and the New Jersey State First Aid Council goes without words. They say that the volunteer is a dying breed, but you would not know this if you knew Bob.
It was 50 years ago that Bob joined the Rockaway Neck First Aid Squad, and as you can imagine, he has seen many changes in his career as a volunteer in the Township of Parsippany Troy-Hills. Bob served his squad in many capacities over the years. He was Secretary for one term, Treasurer for two terms, Vice President for four terms, President for nine terms, Senior Lieutenant for six terms, and Captain for eleven terms. This totals 33 years of holding some sort of office on our Executive board. He was always there when needed and never minded stepping up to help out. As time went on Bob was named to the Board of Trustees and participated with the Trustees until the very end. Under his guidance many Rockaway Neck members grew up and have been able to take on these offices, but always knew that Bob was just a phone call away if any assistance was needed. His service and dedication to the squad and the residents of the Township of Parsippany is unparalleled.
In addition to the Rockaway Neck First Aid Squad he was also a leader within the Sixth District of the New Jersey State First Aid Council and has served as Vice Chairman for five terms, Chairman for eight terms, and Vice President of the Council on a state level for twelve terms for a total of 25 years of holding office.
We all remember him and some of us who have been around for a long time remember him putting up with “those damn kids!”, but without his guidance we know we would not have turned into the responsible and dedicated people we are today. Bob you have done a great job and will be missed by many. A large void has been left since Bob’s passing and he is deeply missed, said Lieutenant Lucy Ellicott
“On behalf of the entire membership of the Rockaway Neck First Aid Squad, we would like to thank Sandy and the entire Deckenback family for sharing Bob with us over the years. We share in the pain of your loss. Know that he will be in our hearts and memories for years to come. You have severed your squad proudly and with great dedication. May you rest in peace my friend, she said.“
Lieutenants Lucy Sadowski-Ellicott and Shaun Wellman worked on making this dedication a reality.
