Garfield ex-Fire Chief Ernie Rosolen, 85, loved his city and the fire department. The chief passed away in February after battling cancer.

Chief Rosolen spent his life being an example of volunteerism. He was recently honored for 60-years of service with Company 4. The chief was instrumental in the construction of Company 4's new firehouse and the acquisition their new tractor-drawn aerial ladder. In addition, he served on the city council and participated on many local boards. Rosolen filled in as City Manager when needed.

He was past president of the South Bergen Fire Chief's Association, Garfield's Firemen's Exempt Association, Garfield Rotary and the Boys and Girls Club of Garfield. Other positions included a Life Member of the NJ State Exempt Firemen's Association and member of the NJ State Fire Chief's Association.

For 32-years, Rosolen worked as a purchasing agent for Garden State Paper, in the city, until he retired in 1999. He was also the director of the company's fire brigade. In 1978, Rosolen served as chief of the city's fire department. Since 2000, he has been working as a city fire inspector.

Rescue-Engine 3's Facebook page described the ex-chief: “Ernie was always there when needed. He was dedicated as a volunteer firefighter hitting milestones so rare that most men never reach.”