It is with deep regret that the Chiefs of the Cutchogue Fire Department announce that Firefighter Donald Richert has answered his last alarm.

Don passed way on May 6th at the age of 85.

He joined CFD in 1993 alongside his son Kenny and served our community for over 30 years.

Don was part of establishing our Water Rescue program in the late 1990’s and served as the team's Captain for many years. Don was an active member of the CFD Fire Police Squad until recent years when his health began to decline.

Don also travelled to numerous meetings representing CFD throughout Suffolk County, serving as a delegate to the Suffolk County Volunteer Firefighters Association and other firematic organizations.

He also served as a part-time houseman for CFD, and was a past Chicken Barbecue Chairman.

In addition to his son Ken being a member of CFD, his wife Pat is an active member of the CFD Ladies Auxiliary.

Don was a retired Sergeant from the Village of Freeport Police Department in Nassau County.

Wake services will be on Thursday, May 8th, from 4 pm-8 pm at the Defriest-Grattan Funeral Home 13805 Main Road (Rt. 25) Mattituck, NY 11952

A Firematic service will be at 7PM.

Graveside service will be on Friday, May 9th at 11:30 AM at the Cutchogue Cemetery.

The Chiefs, Officers, and Members of the Cutchogue Fire would like to extend our condolences to his wife Pat, Son Kenny, Daughter Gail, the entire Richert Family and all of his friends here at CFD.

Our thoughts and prayers are with them during this difficult time.