The Manville Fire Department in Manville, Rhode Island, announced the passing of Honorary Member Capt. Roger Gladu, who died June 23, 2026, after dedicating 36 years of service to the department.

Gladu joined the department in 1954 as a junior firefighter and steadily rose through the ranks, ultimately earning the rank of captain. He served for many years as an officer of Engine 1 and became a respected leader among generations of Manville firefighters.

Gladu also served as the department historian, documenting incidents, major events and the many members who served the department. In recent years, he continued sharing his knowledge with current and former members and participated in the department’s annual Firefighter Sunday ceremony, where he read the names of members as part of a longstanding tradition.

Gladu’s dedication to preserving Manville’s history extended beyond the fire department. Historical photographs and other materials he collected helped document the history of the village and preserve it for future generations.

The department remembered Gladu as a dedicated leader whose service and commitment to preserving its history left a lasting impact. His contributions will continue through the records and traditions he helped preserve and the generations of firefighters who served alongside him.