Butler Fire Department Mourns Chief Bill Dunlap, Announces Services

Photo by Butler Fire Department Rest in Peace Chief Bill Dunlap
The Butler Fire Department announced with deep regret the passing of Assistant Fire Police Chief and former Deputy Chief Bill Dunlap, a devoted member who dedicated more than 52 years of service to the department and the community.
Chief Dunlap began volunteering in 1973 and served in nearly every role, including Deputy Department Chief, Company Chief (Kiel Hook & Ladder), Captain, Lieutenant, Firefighter, and President of the Kiel Hook & Ladder Company. He was also a NJ Division of Fire Safety Level 1 Instructor, a Member of the North Jersey Volunteer Firemen’s Association, a Life Member of both the NJ Firemen’s Relief Association and Exempt Association, and a Member of the NJ Chief’s Association.
Beyond his fire service roles, he was a longtime TriBoro First Aid Squad member, a school crossing guard, and a man always willing to help neighbors in need. Known for his kindness and humor, Chief Dunlap brightened countless days and supported thousands of people throughout his lifetime.
The department called him “a cornerstone of our organization” whose absence will be felt deeply by members and the entire Butler community.
Funeral Arrangements
Viewing:
- Friday, August 29, 3:00–8:00 PM
- Morrison-Etheridge Funeral Home, Bartholdi Avenue
- An Exempt Fireman’s Service will be held at 7:30 PM. Firefighters from other departments wishing to attend are asked to arrive between 7:00–7:15 PM in Class A Uniform.
Funeral Service:
- Saturday, August 30, 10:00 AM
- Butler Methodist Church
- The Final Call for Chief Dunlap will follow at approximately 11:10 AM. Fire department members wishing to participate are asked to report to the Carey Avenue Firehouse by 10:30 AM with turnout gear for the Final Salute.
The Butler Fire Department extended its gratitude for Chief Dunlap’s decades of service:
“Rest easy, Chief. We will take it from here.”