By CRAIG FREILICH
North Country This Week

POTSDAM -- Hundreds of firefighters, rescue squad members, police and other emergency services workers came to Potsdam with their equipment today in tribute to West Stockholm Fire Chief Robert E. White, who died at the scene of a fire Dec. 5.

They came from all over St. Lawrence County, Franklin County, Jefferson County, Watertown and from as far await as Saratoga County, and beyond. Many went to the formal memorial service at SUNY Potsdam's Hosmer Hall while other emergency service members lined up their equipment along both sides Rt. 11B -- Outer Elm Street -- as a cordon for the procession on the route to White's house that the hearse took after the service.

An honor guard escorted the casket into Hosmer and onto the stage for the service.

Inside, firefighters in dress uniforms stood in lines during the singing of the National Anthem before a Call to Worship from Deputy Jefferson County Fire Coordinator Chaplain Leon L. VanWie.

There were scripture readings, music and prayers and ceremonial gestures including The Firefighter’s Memorial, Placing of the Gloves, The Bell Ceremony, Last Alarm, and Recession.

Other participating chaplains were Christoper Carrara of the Morristown Fire Department, and Deputy Jefferson County Fire Coordinator Samuel Lundy.

White, 65 years old, collapsed last Thursday evening after responding to fire that destroyed a house at 415 State Highway 11B. The coroner ruled his death to be of natural causes.

The fire was determined to have been accidental.

White was born in Potsdam in 1954, attended Potsdam High School, graduating in 1974. The following year, he married Trudy Hassler, who survives him. He worked at Alcoa Metals, retiring after 31 years there.

Outside of work and the fire department, White was involved with youth sports, and he and Trudy enjoyed time with their children and grandchildren.

He joined the West Stockholm Volunteer Fire Department in 1978. and won their Fireman of the Year award that same year. He was chosen as Chief of the Department in 1980. He served a total of 41 years in the department and was chief for 33 years, and was one of the county’s first fire coordinators. He was also co-operations manager for the fire training center in West Potsdam.

It was said he always made sure that his firemen were well trained, protected and ready for duty.