Springfield, N.J. — July 29 — Donald Schwerdt Jr., a retired fire chief who devoted decades to the Springfield Fire Department and community, passed away, according to Springfield FMBA Local 57. Schwerdt joined the department on December 1, 1977, and held the position of fire chief from 2004 to 2006 before retiring. He worked in community response, department leadership, and firefighting for many years.

Additionally, a memorial brick honoring Springfield, New Jersey, Deputy Chief Donald Schwerdt Jr. was recognized by the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation. Schwerdt's family, friends, and fellow firemen received condolences from Local 57. Members of the Springfield fire service community honored his service. Since the notification concerned a retired member rather than an emergency reaction, no mutual-aid departments were listed.