It is with great sadness that we regretfully announce the passing of Past Chief Emil Tum Suden, who’s dedicated service spanned 60 years with our Fire Company, along with over 20 years as our Fire Chief. The loss of this “father figure” to our organization is indescribable. The Chief was still actively responding to fire calls up until his recent illness a few weeks ago.

Chief Tum Suden was a Fireman’s Fireman, as we tend to say, and his skilled abilities as an aggressive firefighter and Fire Chief were legendary. Cited for his bravery on several occasions over the years, he truly saved a countless number of lives on Long Beach Island.

Prior to joining us in 1962, he also served as Fire Chief of the Barnegat Light Volunteer Fire Company in 1957 and 1958, and later also served as one of the first Fire Coordinators in Ocean County. He was also one of the first Fire Instructors in Ocean County, and was instrumental in establishing the Ocean County Fire Academy, serving on the fire training liaison committee.

In 2016 we honored Chief Tum Suden for his dedication to the Fire Service by dedicating our new 2016 Spartan Rescue Engine 4913 in his name, a well deserved distinction.

Services will be held on Thursday, September 1st, with details to be finalized and announced in the next few days.

Rest easy in heaven Chief. We miss you already.

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