Ex-chief and first assistant chief Bill Wysocki dies after 50 years of service to Orient

Funeral services for William “Bill” Wysocki, first assistant chief of the Orient Fire Department, will be held today, Tuesday, Sept. 8.

According to his obituary, Mr. Wysocki was born in Greenport and lived most of his 71 years in Orient. For 60 of those years, he owned and operated a lawn care business and enjoyed golfing, woodworking and motor racing.

When he wasn’t spending time with family and friends, he could be found serving the Orient Fire Department. He was an ex-chief, an active member for 53 years and, at the time of his death, first assistant chief of the department.

“For five decades, Bill faithfully served our department and community with dedication, courage and pride,” said a statement on social media made by the department. “He was a respected chief, a trusted friend and a mentor to generations of firefighters. His commitment to the fire service and the lasting impact he made on our department will never be forgotten,” it continued.

Services will be held at Horton-Mathie Funeral Home on Tuesday, Sept. 8, from 3 to 7 p.m., with a Firematic Service at 6 p.m. The funeral service will take place Wednesday, Sept. 9, at 10 a.m., also at Horton-Mathie Funeral Home, with burial to follow at Orient Cemetery.

The Wysocki family is requesting memorial donations in his name be made to the Orient Fire Department.

“Rest easy, Chief,” the department said in its social media statement. “Your duty is complete. You have answered your last alarm, but your legacy will live on forever.”