It is with deep regret and sadness that we announce the passing of 40-year member Chris J. Stanton. A member of Engine and Hose Company Number 2, Chris joined KFD March 8, 1983. For the next 40 years, he was a dedicated, devoted member of Katonah Volunteer Fire Department as a firefighter, Captain, KFD Softball Team manager, and as a driver/operator. He was honored as KFD's Firefighter of the Year in 2011.

No carnival season was ever complete without "Manpower Chairman" Chris Stanton making sure that all KFD volunteers were adequately occupied working the carnival and ensuring its success. Looking on the dispatch room window in late April to see your particular manpower assignment for the upcoming carnival was a KFD "Rite of Spring". And during the carnival, one always knew where to find Chris supervising the operation, comfortably seated in the engine room, cigar in hand, smile on his face.

As Senior Dispatcher and Driver/Operator Emeritus, Chris was a pillar of the department, avidly assisting and mentoring others, and dispensing his own particular versions of advice and philosophy to anyone who would listen, especially during morning "coffee hours" at the firehouse, where he would peruse his NY Post on his phone, drink coffee, and attempt to solve every problem in the world. The verbal parrying that he instigated with his fellow coffee hour participants meant that there was never a dull moment. After this exchange, Chris would head off to the Saw Mill Club to work out, usually accompanied by fellow KFD exercisers.

As Chairman of the Fraternity Committee, Chris possessed a splendid, unique ability to convey news about members--be it a marriage, birth of a child, new job--with a delightful combination of personal information and dry, sarcastic humor. His famous "FC Chris" messages are collectors' items reflecting his intimate knowledge of all things KFD.

We've lost an outstanding member who displayed an incredible talent for initiating and building lasting relationships with everyone in the department, regardless of age, time in department, or rank. He truly spanned the generations.

Arrangements are as follows:
Wake:
Clark Associates in Katonah
Wednesday March 15th
2:00pm-4:00pm
7:00pm-9:00pm
Fire Department Service at 7:30 PM

Funeral:
St. Mary’s Katonah
Thursday March 16th
11:00am

Rest in peace, brother. We'll take it from here.