CHAUMONT, New York (WWNY) – Glenn Dodge, a World War II veteran, former teacher, and 82-year member of the Chaumont Volunteer Fire Department, has died.
He was 104 years old.
The fire department announced his passing on Facebook.
“He was a wonderful, dedicated member who will be missed by our entire community,” the post said.
Dodge’s funeral will be private due to COVID-19. There will be a burial and celebration of life planned by the fire department this spring. More information will be available in the coming months.
We interviewed Dodge on his 103rd birthday and he was especially proud of his family.
“Take a look at the people here. My children, grandchildren, so forth. It’s just fantastic,” he said.
Amid recognition like the Glenn Dodge Community Service Award and his induction into the State Senate’s Veterans Hall of Fame, his family was the top prize.
“He always knew what was going on with everyone because he was always involved. He made you feel special, like your stuff was important,” said Danyelle Pieffer, granddaughter.
To his great-grandkids, he was a role model who knew how to have fun.
“He was always trying to mess with us and make us laugh. He gave us coffee all the time, and sugar all the time,” said Lailey Peiffer
“My favorite memory with him was probably when he blew out the cake and made his wish,” said Grace Dodge, great-granddaughter.
To the community, he was a volunteer firefighter and a retired teacher. He was also a World War II veteran, who fought in the Battle of the Bulge. He often told stories you couldn’t find in the history books.
“He just touched so many people. But that’s how he always is; he’s always willing to sit down and share a story,” said Danyelle Peiffer.
And the Chaumont community didn’t take that for granted. For the past few years on his birthday, the community held a drive-by parade – a celebration with fire trucks and lights – to say thank you.
Back in 2020, he told us he already had big plans for his 105th birthday.
“I’m looking forward to my 105th birthday party because I’ll have a couple of kegs of beer on hand,” he said.
Few people make it to 100, even fewer to 104. While he may not have reached that milestone birthday, his family says the big celebration is still on. Kegs and all.
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