At approximately 3:30 p.m. Tuesday, brothers from the Elbridge Fire Department and the Jordan ambulance responded to assist Bud in his time of need.
“With all of today’s training and medications available to our first responders it was not enough,” said Mottville Fire Chief Tim Baker. “I personally would like to thank the members from both organizations that responded to this emergency. I know everyone did everything they could do.”
Bud was a 45-year member of the Mottville Fire Company, holding offices of president, assistant chief, fire captain and fire police captain. Bud was recently selected as the company’s 2009 Fire Fighter of the Year.
Bud spent many hours each year in our local cemeteries placing flags and markers on the graves of past fire company members. This passion he had for remembering past members was shown daily in his way of caring about members past and present, Baker said.
“Bud would regularly come to a member at a meeting and hand over a small box or package. In the package the member would find a collectable ax or plaque or anything symbolizing the fire service,” Baker said. “Bud gave me a die cast fire detailed chopper as I have a motorcycle and ride as a hobby — they both went together well. It was a special gift.”
The two men would regularly talk about another love of Bud’s, NASCAR. Bud was a follower of driver Mark Martin and spoke often of Martin’s success. He always had an idea of how he could get the win.
For Hervey “Bud” Atwater, your final alarm has sounded and you will be missed but never forgotten.
“Our hearts and prayers are with you brother and all of your family,” Baker said.
Calling hours will be from 4 to 7 p.m. Friday Feb. 12 at Robert Gray Funeral Home on Jordan Street in Skaneateles with a funeral service at 11 a.m. Saturday at the funeral home.
Following the service, the Mottville Fire Department will transport Bud from the funeral home to Lake View Cemetery on West Genesee Street. Firefighters will march in escort with their fire apparatus to Lake View.
