| The Reading and Berks County Fire Service has lost an icon. Retired Fire Chief William “Bill” Rehr III passed away over the weekend. He was 84 years young. To his family and friends, we at TSFRS express our deepest and affectionate condolences.
His life was the fire service. Joining as an Oakbrook Fire Co. volunteer in Reading in 1959, he also served with the Union and Schuylkill Fire Companies. After a stint in the US Army he continued to volunteer while employed at some very iconic Berks County institutions such as Berkshire Chemical, Car Tech and Boscov’s. He was the last full time chief officer appointed from the volunteer ranks and served as a Deputy Chief until being appointed as the Fire Chief in 1996. His success was an indication of the respect held by both career and volunteer ranks. Along his pathway, he also served as the first Berks County 911 Coordinator and President of the Reading Area Firefighters Museum, a position he occupied until his passing.
Chief Rehr served as a mentor and role model to many in the Reading/Berks firefighting community, whether he knew it or not. His calm presence and approachable, friendly demeanor made him a natural leader to which others gravitated.
He will be missed.
Rest easy. We’ll take it from here boss, and we’ll be taking you with us.
For more information on Chief Rehr, refer to the links below and check out the various Facebook postings in his honor. |
