03/18/2025
It is with deep regret and profound sadness that Volunteer Hook & Ladder Fire Company of Belmar, NJ announces the sudden passing of Donald W. “Donny” Zessin Sr.
Donny joined Hook & Ladder in May 2019 and quickly became a fixture in our firehouse. Full of life, love, and positive energy, Donny made everyone around him feel welcomed. He had a passion for the fire service, a passion discovered at an early age in his hometown of East Granby, Connecticut. Donny was fully invested in all he did, not only fighting fires, but also as an engineer and operator, a helping hand in fundraising, a chef, and a mentor to newer members.
Donny was not only a member of Hook & Ladder; he was also as a member of Independent Fire Company in Spring Lake Heights where he previously served as an Assistant Chief and Secretary. The only love he had greater than firefighting was his love of his family; his wife Michelle and his son Donald Jr, along with his brother Todd, his parents, in-laws, and several other extended family members. Our sincerest condolences go out to the entire Zessin family during their time of loss.
A part of our firehouse will be forever missing, a great man will be forever missed. Rest In Peace, Brother; we’ll take it from here. Future arrangements will be announced at a later date.