05/02/2026
āMeet Our Leadersā ā Part 14 of our continued series introducing the leadership of the Chatham Fire Department to our community
Today we are proud to introduce Michael Blasl, Sr., Treasurer of Ocean Fire Company #1.
Mike is a nearly 20-year veteran of the Chatham Fire Department, where he has served the community with dedication, professionalism, and pride. For almost that entire time, he has held the critical role of Treasurer for Ocean Fire Company #1ādemonstrating not only his commitment on the fireground, but also his leadership and stewardship behind the scenes.
In recognition of his tireless efforts and unwavering commitment to the department, Mike is a proud recipient of both the 2011 Captainās Award and the 2025 Ocean Fire Company Axe Award.
Outside of the firehouse, Mike has built a lifetime of service to the community. Alongside his wife, Dawn-Marieāa retired educator and higher-education leaderāhe owned and operated French, Gifford, Preiter & Blasl Funeral Home for many years. While ownership has recently transitioned, Mike continues to serve as Manager, maintaining his long-standing commitment to supporting families in their time of need.
Mikeās dedication to Chatham extends far beyond the department. He currently serves as President of the Friends of the Tracy and is an active member of the Elks Club and St. James Parish. He also recently retired after more than a decade of distinguished service as Columbia County Coroner.
At the state level, Mike continues to contribute through his work with the New York State Funeral Directors Association, where he serves on the Funeral Directors Support Services Board, including the Audit and Governance Affairs Committees, and as a board member of Directors Choice Credit Union.
Through each of these roles, Mike exemplifies leadership, integrity, and a deep-rooted commitment to serviceāboth within the Chatham Fire Department and throughout the broader community.
Please join us in thanking Michael Blasl, Sr. for his dedication, leadership, and continued service to the Chatham Fire Department and the community we proudly serve.