SOMERS POINT — Mayor Dennis Tapp and City Council honored the life and service of Fire Chief Frank John Denan on March 12.
The longtime public servant died Feb. 17 at the age of 73, leaving behind his beloved family, lifelong friends and brothers and sisters of the Somers Point Fire Department.
According to a resolution honoring Denan, he was a devoted public servant, trusted leader and treasured member of the community.
Denan was a lifelong resident of Somers Point, born May 14, 1952, whose life was defined by service to the city he loved and the neighbors he proudly called friends.
Following graduation from high school, Denan honorably served his country as a member of the National Guard from 1971-78, demonstrating early in life his deep sense of duty and commitment, according to the resolution.
The city’s all-volunteer fire department is an enduring part of the fabric of the city.
“Chief Denan embodied the very spirit of that tradition through courage, leadership and unwavering dedication,” the resolution states.
Denan devoted more than 44 years of service to the residents of Somers Point, joining Somers Point Volunteer Fire Company No. 2 at the age of 18 and serving with honor in various leadership roles, including chief and deputy chief, from 1991 until his retirement in 2015.
Beyond fighting fires, Denan was entrusted with safeguarding the community as the city’s fire inspector and later as code enforcement officer, property maintenance inspector and housing inspector, roles in which he worked diligently to ensure the safety and well-being of residents and businesses alike, according to the resolution.
“Those who served alongside him knew Frank as a steady presence, a mentor and a man whose quiet strength and steadfast character earned the respect and admiration of generations of firefighters,” the resolution states.
“Frank’s the reason I’m here today,” city Public Works General Supervisor Stephen Hornig told the Sentinel.
Denan called Hornig to let him know the city was hiring a boat ramp attendant and gave Hornig a reference to former administrator Wes Swain.
“If it wasn’t for that, I wouldn’t be in the position I am today,” Hornig said.
Denan was employed as a painter and plant supervisor for more than 25 years at Shore Medical Center, where he likewise earned the trust and respect of his colleagues, the resolution states.
According to his obituary, in his free time, Denan could be found at the gym, working in his shed, enjoying an apple martini at the Anchorage on Friday nights with his wife, or cruising to Bermuda.
“Always the life of the party, our father had a dry wit and never lost his sense of humor. He loved to be the boss, and relished in telling people what they were doing wrong,” the obituary states. “He loved a good meal, a cold beer and a great dessert.”
Denan was predeceased by his wife of 42 years, Sherry, who passed only eight months earlier.
– By CRAIG D. SCHENCK/Sentinel staff