It is with deep regret that the Alert Fire Co. No. 1 of Downingtown, PA announces the following:

Whereas, the Almighty God, in his infinite wisdom has removed from our midst on Tuesday, October 20, 2009, one of our beloved brothers and Life Member, Fred Eckenbach, who was always found faithful in the discharge of his duties and whose every thought and purpose was for the welfare of his company.  And, while we deeply regret and mourn the loss sustained in the death of our late brother, we bow in humble submission to the Divine Will.

Therefore, be it resolved that we, the members of the Alert Fire Co. No. 1 of Downingtown, PA, do hereby extend and convey to the bereaved family and friends our deep and heartfelt sympathy.

Fred became an Active Force Member of the company on January 28, 1963 and was a Driver and an Engineer until 1983.  He was awarded his his Life Membership in 1983, as well.  Fred was also past Fire Chief of the Thorndale Fire Co. (1979-1992) and a member of the Minquas Fire Co. No. 2 and the Wagontown Fire Co.

A viewing will be held on Friday, October 23, 2009 from 6:00 PM until 9:00 PM at the James Terry Funeral Home, 736 E. Lancaster Ave., Downingtown, PA  19335.

Friends can call, as well on Saturday, October 24, 2009 from 8:30 AM until 9:45 AM at the Downingtown United Methodist Church, 751 E. Lancaster Ave., Downingtown, PA 19335, followed by a service of Christian Burial at 10:00 AM.

Interment will immediately follow at the Bradford Cemetery on Northbrook Rd. in Marshallton, PA.

Any company wishing to participate or send apparatus should contact Sergeant Raymond Stackhouse of the Thorndale Fire Co. at 484-571-9686.

All photo's are courtesy of www.westwoodfire.com