West Babylon FD Mourns Ex-Fire Chief Who 'Faithfully Served' For 40+ Years

WEST BABYLON, NY — The West Babylon Fire Department is mourning the loss of another dedicated lifelong firefighter, family man and community member.

Richard P. Kroebel, a former chief of Beaver Engine Company No. 2, died July 31. He was 70 years old.

This is the second loss in the last week for the tight-knit fire department and West Babylon community, who also lost ex-Captain David Burke on July 31 due to a 9/11-related illness.

In a social media post, the West Babylon Fire Department paid tribute to Kroebel, writing: "It is with deep regret that the West Babylon Fire Department announces the passing of Ex-Chief Richard Kroebel of Beaver Engine Company No. 2.

"Ex-Chief Kroebel joined the Department in March of 1974 and faithfully served for over 40 years until his transition to inactive life status in 2016.

"He was Captain of Engine Co. 2 from 1980–1982 and entered the Chiefs Office in 1990, ultimately serving as Chief of Department from 1996 to 1998. He continued his service to the Department and community as a Fire Commissioner from 2004 to 2014 and also served as a Trustee of the Benevolent Association."

According to Kroebel's obituary, he is survived by his loving wife Carole, his son Richard Jr., stepchildren Carie and Stephanie, four siblings and six grandchildren.

Visitors will be received on Tuesday, Aug. 5, from 2 to 4:30 p.m. and 7 to 9 p.m. at Claude R. Boyd-Spencer Funeral Home in Babylon.

Firematic Services will be conducted by the West Babylon Fire Department at 8 p.m.

Fire department officials are asking the public to "please keep the Kroebel family in your thoughts during this difficult time."