COAL TOWNSHIP - Timothy A. DiOrio, the only Coal Township firefighter killed in the line of duty, was honored Sunday afternoon for his bravery, inspiration to others and legacy in the community.
DiOrio, a 21-year member of Maine Fire Company who died at the age of 36 battling a mutual aid fire in Trevorton on Nov. 1, 2002, was recalled by fellow firefighters and a retired state trooper during his 10th annual memorial service as a hero, dedicated volunteer, leader, animal lover and special person.
In addition to being a volunteer fireman, DiOrio also was a state trooper assigned to the Selinsgrove barracks and state police fire marshal.
A nice crowd, including family members, friends, a large contingent of firefighters from Maine Fire Company and Coal Township fire and government officials gathered on the cloudy day at DiOrio's memorial on Cliff Street near Arch Street to once again pay tribute to the fallen firefighter.
Firefighters, an engine and specialty truck processed from Maine Fire Company to the memorial and were led by a color guard from the Civil Air Patrol.
"Speaking at this service means more to me than any other speaking engagement I've ever had," commented Kenneth Hill, a retired lieutenant colonel from the Pennsylvania State Police and DiOrio's good friend. "I am honored and humbled to be here."
The Marine Corps veteran added, "We are here to set our brother off with honors that are due to an American hero. The phrase - if only - never changes the reality of the loss of a loved one. We are still left with the pain and memories. We tell stories and share our memories of Timmy that generate laughter, which makes the pain a little easier to bear."
Hill, who was a state police lieutenant in Troop F at the time of DiOrio's death and organized the thousands of police and firefighters who attended his funeral, talked about DiOrio's kindness towards dogs and cats, his advanced skills and knowledge of the police and firefighting professions, his bravery and inspiration to others.
"We know Timmy was a special person and inspired a community to build a memorial in his honor. He made us all very proud," Hill said.
Also serving as guest speakers were Steven Gregory, a second lieutenant with Maine Fire Company, and Matt Dunn, a volunteer firefighter with Maine who serves as the protective services instructor at Northumberland County Career and Technology Center.
Gregory discussed the long history of Maine Fire Company, which was officially established as the first fire company in Coal Township on Aug. 13, 1898, and named after the U.S. Battleship Maine.
Dunn shared some humorous stories about DiOrio that included his love of fire trucks. He said his friend was very instrumental in purchasing a new engine for the fire company and set a great example for younger firefighters.
He said every member of Maine Fire Company completed at least firefighter I certification as their way of honoring DiOrio since his death. He said DiOrio was the first member of the organization to have completed the training, which is offered by the National Fire Protection Association.
"Channeling our energy by completing the certification was something positive that helped us with the grief experienced by Tim's death," Dunn said.
Michael Ulrich and Bailey Stank, junior firefighters at Maine, recited an inspiration poem dedicated to firefighters.
Thomas Kiefaber, president of Maine Fire Company, served as master of ceremonies for the program that was organized by Sandra Schenewerk, chairwoman of the Timothy A. DiOrio Memorial Committee.
Kiefaber introduced each of the speakers and thanked everyone for attending.
The Rev. Tammy Gessner, pastor of Richfield United Church of Christ who offered an opening prayer and benediction, stated, "We are here to celebrate Timmy's life. As long as we live, Timmy shall live. He will always be part of us. He left a legacy and we continue to cherish his memory as we move on. He would want us to smile, open our eyes and hearts to love, and serve our fellow man and all of God's creatures."
Trooper Scott Davis of the Pennsylvania State Police and John Richardson, captain of Maine Fire Company, placed a wreath at the memorial during the service.
Seth Lowe played the bagpipes before and during the memorial service, and sounded taps.
Tiffany Kaseman sang the national anthem.
DiOrio's parents, Al and Cathy DiOrio, Coal Township, were among various family members in attendance. Mr. DiOrio described the service as "beautiful" and commended everyone who attended and organized the event. He especially praised the efforts of Schenewerk and her committee.
Tracy Brown, Paxinos, also attended the service in memory of her late husband.
A reception at Maine Fire Company followed the service.