South Brunswick Mourns ‘Dedicated’ Firefighter Dennis Shennard

SOUTH BRUNSWICK, NJ – In South Brunswick, firefighter Dennis Shennard was well known for his “dedication” and as an “outstanding member of the community.” His death on Saturday morning has left the community in mourning.

A member of the Kingston fire company for 52 years, Shennard held several offices, including Captain, and was currently serving as Trustee.

“He provided countless hours of sacrifice to improve the safety of our community and asked little in return,” Mayor Charlie Carley said. “Our volunteer firefighters are the heart of what makes our community great. As a Township, we are mourning the loss of such an outstanding member of our community.”

Shennard suffered a cardiac arrest on Saturday while working at a drill with the fire department at the Middlesex County Fire Academy. He received immediate treatment at the scene by fellow firefighters and the Kendall Park First Aid Squad and was transported to Raritan Bay Medical Center in Perth Amboy. Shennard was pronounced dead shortly after his arrival at the hospital.

Born in Trenton, Shennard was a longtime resident of Kingston and joined the volunteer fire company in 1969. “Dennis was a dedicated firefighter who we always counted on whether it was responding to calls or assisting around the station,” said Kingston Fire Chief John Luck.

On Sunday, Mayor Carley announced that the Township will lower all flags and have a period of mourning in honor of Shennard.

"We stand united with our fellow first responders during this difficult time,” South Brunswick Police Chief and OEM Director Raymond Hayducka said. “I extend my deepest sympathy to Firefighter Shennard's family, friends, and all our firefighters and EMS personnel."

According to the obituary posted on MJ Murphy Funeral Home, visitation will be held on Wednesday, June 30 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. at 616 Ridge Road at New Road, Monmouth Junction.

Funeral service will be held at 10 a.m. on Thursday, July 1, at the funeral home. Burial will follow in the Rocky Hill Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, Shennard’s family has asked for donations to be made to the Kingston Volunteer Fire Company #1, PO Box 222, Kingston.

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