Former Greece Ridge fire chief Kenneth 'Butch' Volkmar dies at 93

Victoria E. Freile, New York Connect TeamMon, May 11, 2026 at 3:47 PM UTC

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A longtime leader of the Ridge Road Fire District and Greece Ridge Fire Department has died.

Kenneth “Butch” Volkmar, who served as fire chief for more than three decades, died Wednesday, May 6, at age 93, according to his obituary.

Volkmar served as chief for 32 years

Volkmar joined the Greece Ridge Fire Department and Ridge Road Fire District in 1950, following in the footsteps of his father and brother, who also served as chiefs, according to the fire district.

He served as chief from 1965 until retiring in 1997.

“Chief Volkmar’s legacy of service, leadership and dedication will have a lasting impact on the department and the community he so faithfully served,” current Fire Chief Sean McGarry said in a statement.

“The Volkmar name has become synonymous with dedication to both this community and the fire service for generations,” McGarry added.

Remembered for hands-on leadership

Kenneth Volkmar in 1971

McGarry said Volkmar was known for leading from the front during emergency calls.

“He was the kind of chief who led from the front, whether making a hydrant, stretching a line or driving apparatus before assuming command of an incident,” McGarry said. “He could often be seen with his cherished pipe, calmly surveying the scene and never missing a thing.”

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During his tenure, Volkmar oversaw significant growth within the department, including expanded emergency medical services, fire safety education programs and fire codes throughout the town.

Even after retirement, he remained a familiar presence at the firehouse, often stopping in to connect with firefighters.

Longtime Greece business owner, church member

Outside the fire service, Volkmar worked in the family paving business and at the family-owned Volkmar Cider Mill in Greece, which was known for its fresh cider.

He was also a lifelong member of St. John the Evangelist Church in Greece and an avid golfer.

Volkmar is survived by his children, Susan Simeone, Pat Lanzafame and Bob Volkmar, along with four grandchildren. He was predeceased by his wife of 68 years, Beverly.

Calling hours and funeral arrangements

Calling hours are scheduled from 4 to 7 p.m. Monday, May 11, at Farrell-Ryan Funeral and Cremation Services, 777 Long Pond Road in Greece.

A funeral Mass will be held at 10 a.m. Tuesday, May 12, at St. John the Evangelist Church, 2400 West Ridge Road in Greece. Burial will follow at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery.

This article originally appeared on Rochester Democrat and Chronicle: Former Greece Ridge fire chief Kenneth 'Butch' Volkmar dies at 93

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