'Brave' Firefighter With A 'Heart Of Gold' Honored By Street Renaming

DEER PARK, NY — Deer Park fireman John Caldwell Sr. was known for his heart of gold, according to the Deer Park Fire Department.

Caldwell's legacy will live on thanks to his community and Suffolk County officials who gathered in April for a ceremonial renaming of Tiber Avenue, now known as John Caldwell Sr. Memorial Way.

Caldwell passed away on February 7, 2024, after serving with the Deer Park Fire Department for 49 years.

On Tuesday, the fire department paid tribute to Caldwell on its website, writing:

"Firefighter John Caldwell Sr. was more than just a brave firefighter. He was a person with a heart of gold, always with a smile and the first one to shake your hand. We mourn the loss of a dedicated member of our department and community."

Caldwell joined the fire department in 1974, was a deacon with the Deer Park First Baptist Church and was a member of the Army Reserves, his family said. He leaves behind his two children, Ricky and Felicia, two grandchildren, and his wife of 62 years, Elizabeth.

"John Caldwell dedicated 49 years of his life to serving the residents of Deer Park and protecting his neighbors," said New York State Senator Monica R. Martinez who attended the ceremony. "Just as in life, this dedication ensures that John Caldwell will continue to watch over the streets of his community and his legacy will be carried on for generations to come."