By John O'Brien Sr.
It is difficult to sum up the life of Ex Capt. Ray Pfeifer, and even more difficult to write this article about a friend, and fellow firefighter. A hero, who had such an impact on so many here in East Meadow, the city of New York, and so many first responders during the worst times of their lives.
But on Sunday, with unspeakable sadness, the East Meadow Fire Department announced that Ray Pfeifer of Engine Company #3 had passed away. Diagnosed with a 9/11-related cancer after working for months at the World Trade Center site, it was Ray who found strength in a time of his own suffering, as an icon who symbolized the battle to re-instate the Zadroga Act that was in place to provide funding for those who suffered a 9/11-related illness.
He was a Levittown resident who joined East Meadow’s Engine Company #3 after growing up watching his dad, the late Joseph Austin Pfeifer (also of Engine 3) battle fires for decades.
Years later, Ray developed a form of cancer common to so many who worked at the site. He would go through years of treatment, and continue to make the best of what life had to offer him.
He was often seen traveling around East Meadow with his antique fire truck, attending events, driving Santa during the holidays, taking part in wounded warriors programs, all while spreading his cheer to all that would meet him.
“I’m the luckiest man alive,” Ray would say. “I got 15 years more to spend with my family and friends than my brothers who died on 9/11.”
On May 28, Ray lost his battle with cancer. As one of his last requests, his beloved brothers of East Meadow’s Engine Company #3 were summoned to Ray’s side, removing him with their caring hands to begin his journey into eternal life.
Ray is survived by his loving family, wife Caryn, son Terrence, and daughter Taylor, as well as his brothers and sisters.
Thank you Ray, for all you have done in your life for your family. Your East Meadow Fire Department, our community, the FDNY, and the countless people thank you for making a difference when they needed someone like you the most.
John O’Brien Sr. is an East Meadow Fire Department ex chief.