By: Joseph L. Kuchie

Firefighter and Police Officer Gerald “Bear” Celecki at the SAFD 125th Anniversary Parade 10/3/15 He was Chief of the Middlesex County Fire-Police *Photo by SAFD

SOUTH AMBOY – The South Amboy City Council recognized the passing of fireman Gerald “Bear” Celecki at last Wednesday’s council meeting.

Celecki, 70, died in the line of duty on October 7th while responding to a call on Parker Avenue. The council began the meeting with a moment of silence for the fallen fireman and had kind words to say about his dedication to the city.

“South Amboy lost a truly great volunteer in Gerald “Bear” Celecki,” Mayor Fred Henry said. “He was a great volunteer firemen from South Amboy and will be greatly missed.”

“I’d like to take this opportunity to express appreciation for his years of service to the residents of South Amboy, Perth Amboy, and also his county,” Councilwoman Zusette Dato said.  “I’d also like to extend sympathy to his wife and family.

In addition, Gov. Chris Christie signed Executive Order 189 to have American flags and the New Jersey state flags flown at half-staff from Oct. 22 to Oct. 28. Celecki served both Perth Amboy and South Amboy’s fire departments for over 50 years and was part of a number of fire associations in the state.