Police/Fire/EMS

Veteran, Police Officer, and Firefighter Joseph McKenna Passes Away at 87

Published

3 years ago

August 30, 2023

TAPPAN, NY – Joseph J. McKenna, 87, passed away on Monday, August, 28, 2023 with family at his side. Born in Nyack, New York on February 29, 1936 to John A. and Catharine McKenna, he was raised in Piermont, New York with his seven older siblings. After graduating from Piermont High School in 1954, he proudly served his country in the United States Navy.

Upon his return he joined the Clarkstown Police Department where served his community for over twenty years and proudly worked to start the Police Benevolent Association of Rockland County.

In 1960 he married Helene Seebach, his wife and love of his life for 63 years. They raised their three sons, John, Joseph, and Thomas and enjoyed their grandchildren and the many life-long friends they made. He went back to school to pursue his degree in history, graduating from St. Thomas Aquinas College in 1981.

In addition to his professional career as a Clarkstown Police Officer, Joe served as an active member in many volunteer activities including being an original member of the Piermont Underwater Rescue Team, the Volunteer Fire Association of Tappan for over 60 years where he was a past president, the Carl A. Schelin American Legion Post 1271, the Pearl River Elks, The Knights of Columbus, St Dominic’s Council 5343, and the Rockland County P.B.A.

One of Joe’s favorite pastimes was sharing his love of history and his country with his grandchildren. Many a story was told, and infinite memories are treasured by those who were lucky enough to learn from him.

Joseph is predeceased by his parents John and Catharine, his siblings: Conrad, Mary Catharine, John, Doris Elizabeth (O’ Neill), Anne Mercedes (Flounlacker), Ellen Patricia (Secor), and George. Joseph is also predeceased by his beloved son, John who passed away in 1997.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 63 years, Helene; sons Joseph, of Grahamsville, NY, Thomas (Brigid), of Tappan, NY; daughters-in-law Rosemary, of Pearl River and Tracy, of Neversink. He is also survived by his adored grandchildren Katie, Jack, Kevin, Joseph, James, Jennifer, Brigid, Laura, and Thomas McKenna; and his brother in law, Alan Seebach as well as his many beloved nieces and nephews.

A wake will be held Thursday, August, 31 from 3:00 – 7:00 pm at Moritz Funeral Home in Tappan, New York. A Mass of Christian burial will be held on Friday, September 1, at 11:00 am at Our Lady of the Sacred Heart Church in Tappan, New York. Internment will be at Rockland Cemetery, Sparkill, New York.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made in his name to the Tappan Fire Association Welfare Fund.

Police/Fire/EMS

Nanuet Fire Department Seeks New Volunteer Firefighters

Published

21 hours ago

July 25, 2026

Rockland Report Admin

The volunteer firefighters of the Nanuet Fire Department are always ready to answer the call, leaving work, family gatherings, and daily routines behind to respond whenever the community needs them. Their dedication and commitment help keep Nanuet safe 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

As the department continues its mission of serving the community, it is actively seeking new volunteers to join its ranks. Residents who have ever considered giving back to their community are encouraged to learn more about becoming a volunteer firefighter. No prior experience is necessary, as the department provides training, equipment, and ongoing support.

Volunteering with the Nanuet Fire Department offers the opportunity to develop valuable skills, build lasting friendships, and make a meaningful difference in the lives of neighbors when they need it most.

The Nanuet Fire Department extends its sincere gratitude to its current volunteer firefighters for their selfless service and unwavering dedication. Their commitment strengthens the department and makes the entire community safer.

Nanuet is stronger because of you.

Police/Fire/EMS

Ramapo Police Seek Public’s Help Identifying E-Bike Riders

Published

1 week ago

July 17, 2026

Rockland Report Admin

The Ramapo Police Department is asking for the public’s help identifying two individuals who allegedly fled from an officer after riding e-bike motorcycles recklessly along Route 59 and Campbell Avenue on Wednesday afternoon.

According to police, the incident occurred on July 16, 2026, at approximately 3:54 p.m., when a Ramapo police officer was traveling eastbound on Route 59 near 7-Eleven. As the officer safely moved to the right to allow a Faist EMS ambulance responding to a medical emergency to pass, two e-bike riders allegedly passed the patrol vehicle on the right, blocking the officer’s maneuver.

Police said the riders continued operating their e-bikes dangerously as they traveled onto Campbell Avenue, with one rider allegedly crossing over the double-yellow lines into oncoming traffic.

When the officer attempted to stop the riders after they turned into the Bon Aire neighborhood, police said they fled south on Bon Aire Circle into the Village of Suffern. The officer did not pursue them out of concern for the safety of the public and the riders.

The Ramapo Police Department is asking anyone who recognizes the individuals shown in photographs released by the department or who has information that could help identify them to contact the Ramapo Police Department at (845) 357-2400.

Police said community assistance is essential in helping hold those responsible for dangerous behavior on local roadways accountable.