MINERVA, NY — March 6th — Ron Howe Sr., a former member of Minerva Volunteer Fire & Rescue, 1495 NY-28N, who joined the organization in the early 1990s and performed a number of crucial support jobs, passed away. Howe assisted with traffic control and site safety during emergency situations as a volunteer firefighter. In addition, he drove ambulances for the rescue squad, helping with patient transportation and emergency calls.

Howe participated in discussions about equipment upgrades and bylaw amendments in addition to his operational responsibilities as a member of the department's Board of Directors. Members observed that he was well-known for consistently showing up to meetings and being involved in departmental matters. Other Howe family members were motivated to join the agency by his commitment to public service.