The Chilmark Volunteer Firemen’s Association will sponsor a public memorial service for George Szilassy on Sunday, April 24 at the Menemsha Beach parking lot. People are asked to assemble next to the harbor at 11:30 a.m. Coffee from Menemsha Texaco will follow the service.

George, who died Nov. 19, served as a dedicated member of the Chilmark Fire Department since 1994. He was a painter by trade but his heart was in serving the community. He participated in all department events, including Halloween and Christmas celebrations, the Back Yard Bash, the annual auction, and the boot drive. All will miss him.

George’s van could often be seen at the Menemsha Texaco, and you could count on having a good chat and a cup of coffee with him. He was vice president of the Chilmark Fire Association, and served for several years on the scholarship committee.

He took the time to welcome new fire department members and to help teach them. George took great pride in the department and participated in all ongoing training.