On October 20, the North Norwich Fire Department and Chenango County celebrated the 100th birthday of community member John Graves. Graves was one of the founding fathers of the NNFD. (Submitted photo)

By Sophia Root,

Commerce Chenango

NORWICH - On October 20, the North Norwich Fire Department and Chenango County celebrated the 100th birthday of community member John Graves. Fellow firemen, coworkers, friends and loved ones from all over Chenango County were in attendance to present awards and share memories of Graves’ legendary career.

Owner of Graves’ Wheel and Brake Service and a dedicated Chenango County Historical Society volunteer, Graves has dedicated his life to community service, projects, and the betterment of Chenango County.

Those present at the party described Graves as, “Humble, the best person in the world, someone who would do anything for anyone, and someone who does everything from the heart.”

Assemblyman Angelino presented a citation, a birthday card, and shared a memory of Graves from early in his career. After that, firemen from the North Norwich Fire Department (NNFD) presented a plaque handmade by high school volunteers.

Graves was one of the founding fathers of the NNFD, he literally built the firehouse. He served as chief for 17 years, the first in NNFD history.

Stories were shared of Graves’ time working in the Chenango County Office of Emergency Services as he was presented with another plaque commemorating his service to the County.

When asked about the celebration, Graves stated, “This is unexpected, I don’t know where all the time has gone. What more can I say but thank you everybody.”