Gilbert Arzola

Gil was born on February 16, 1948, in Corpus Christi, Texas, to the late Francisco and Lydia (Fernandez) Arzola. Before his retirement, he worked for many years building custom-made firetrucks for Saulsbury Fire Rescue Inc., and later as a diesel mechanic.

Gil was proud of his Native American heritage and proud to be a firefighter. He was a longtime, dedicated volunteer firefighter for the Apulia Fire Company, serving for over 41 years. During his membership, he received numerous awards, including Firefighter of the Year (1997), Most Fire Calls (1997, 2002, 2005), and Most Rescue Calls (2004, 2011). He held the position of 1st Lieutenant of Fire (2003-2007), Captain of Fire (2008-2014), and Lieutenant of Fire Police (2015-2023).

He loved spending time with his Firematic Family at all events, parades, and Monday night drills; he was the official Beer Booth pourer at the truck parties and enjoyed manning the kitchen at the pancake breakfasts.

In addition to his love of the fire department, he spent Sundays watching NASCAR, listening to country classics, and spending time with his family.

He met his life partner, Pamela, on November 19, 1988, in Fishkill, New York, while he was delivering a Saulsbury firetruck. Together, their lives became richer as they became grandparents and great-grandparents over the years.

Gil was deeply involved in all of his grandchildren’s lives, from New York to Colorado. He was always there for a hug, snuggle, or wisecrack and didn’t miss a milestone, sporting event, camping trip, or holiday. His dedication carried on through his great-grandchildren’s lives, playing cars and blocks on the floor or enjoying a snuggle while reading a book right up until the end.

Gil is survived by his devoted partner, Pam Clausen, of 37 years, and by her children, his chosen sons, Michael (Kimberly) and Steven (Sandra). He was affectionately known as “Grandpa Gil” to his grandchildren, Heather (Robert), Steven, Chayton, Sage, and Blue, and great-grandfather to Samuel and Sofia. He was deeply loved by his brother, Francisco “Frank” Arzola Jr., and a number of nieces and nephews, all still living in Texas.

Gil was predeceased by his sister, Eva Arzola, baby brother Margarito Arzola, and baby sister Margarita Lydia Arzola.

Gil will be greatly missed and leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter and service. His memory–and the stories of his life–will live on throughout his family, friends, and fire department for years to come.

Memorial visitation is scheduled for Tuesday, July 29 from 4-7pm at Edward F Carter Funeral Home, 170 Kings Ferry Road, Montrose, NY 10548. A Mass of Christian Burial is scheduled for Wednesday, July 30 at 10am at St. Augustine’s Church, 381 N Highland Ave, Ossining, NY 10562. Interment is private. A Celebration of Life will be held in Apulia, NY at a later date. Details will be announced when available.

The family requests that, in lieu of flowers, contributions can be made in his honor to Apulia Fire Company Inc., PO Box 96, Apulia Station, NY 13020, with the memo: Gilbert Arzola.