The National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC) has reported the death of one of their founding members and longtime board members, E. James Monihan.
According to the NVFC, "Jim" Monihan was a vocal and respected advocate for the fire and emergency services. He was involved with the NVFC from the beginning and played an important role in the growth of the organization.
He passed away Saturday, July 18.
"The NVFC and the entire fire service community have lost a great leader and advocate, and it is with very heavy hearts that we bid him farewell," said Philip C. Stittleburg, Chairman of the NVFC, in a prepared statement. "Jim was a true pillar in the fire and medical services at the local, state, and national levels. He will be deeply missed."
Monihan reportedly sketched the first NVFC logo on a napkin and with that, the NVFC image was born. He became the Director from Delaware in 1977 and served as NVFC Chairman from 1979 to 1991. He also served as a member of the NVFC's Executive Committee and as Chair of the Legislative Committee. Monihan also represented the NVFC on the Congressional Fire Services Institute's (CSFI) National Advisory Committee and on the National Fire Protection Association standards committee, and he testified before Congress many times regarding fire service issues.
"Jim's dedication to the fire and emergency services community is an inspiration to us all. He was a true leader and gentleman, so let us celebrate his life and accomplishments," said Heather Schafer, Executive Director of the NVFC.
Monihan first joined the fire service in 1957 after being inspired by his uncle, a volunteer firefighter. He was a lifetime member of the Lewes (DE) Fire Department, where he had served as President and Deputy Chief; as well as the Cranston Heights (DE) Fire Company, where he had served as Secretary and Ambulance Captain. He was also an honorary member of the Bethany Beach Volunteer Fire Company and was a past president and active member of the Delaware Volunteer Firemen's Association.
Throughout his years in the fire and emergency medical services, Monihan received awards and recognitions. These include CFSI's Mason Lankford Fire Service Leadership Award; the Sons of the American Revolution's Fire Service Medal; the Bowl of Hygeia pharmacy award; Administrator of the Year from the American College of Healthcare Executives; the NVFC Director Award; President Emeritus for the Lewes Fire Department; and the 2007 Robert Tunnell Award for Service to Beebe Medical Center.
Jim Monihan is survived by his wife Jan, two children and two grandchildren.
Update
Please be advised that the viewing times for Jim Monihan have been revised. The viewing will be held from 4-7 p.m. Thursday at the Melson Funeral Home, located at Long Neck Road, Millsboro, DE 19966.
The funeral will be at 10 a.m. on Friday, July 24 at St. Jude The Apostle Church, located 152 Tulip Drive, Lewes, DE 19958. The church is on the north bound side of Highway 1 just north of the intersection of US Route 9 and Highway 1.
Cards can be sent to:
Monihan Family
16 Bay Breeze Drive
Lewes, DE 19958
Related:
