01/22/2026
It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Alfred “Al” Magnatta at the age of 100.
Al Magnatta lived a life defined by service to his country and his community. On March 4, 1946, after returning home from World War II, Al joined the Congers Fire Department. During the war, he served with the U.S. Army 8th Air Force Division, stationed in England from 1943 to 1945, where he completed 25 combat missions as a B-17 aerial gunner.
Al quickly rose through the ranks and served as Chief of the Department from 1960 to 1962. That same year, he was appointed Deputy Fire Coordinator for Rockland County, a role he held until 2020. He was the longest-serving Deputy Fire Coordinator in Rockland County history.
Throughout his career, Al helped shape the fire service across the county. He served on the False Alarm Committee and the UL Committee, worked to establish countywide alarm system standards, and filled many roles including Fire Instructor, Administrative Assistant to the County Fire Coordinator, and Fire Liaison during major emergencies and drills, including operations at Indian Point. He responded to nearly every type of emergency the county experienced, including the 80 hour freight train fire following the June 6, 1974 derailment in the tunnel between Congers and Haverstraw.
In 2005, Al was honored as Grand Marshal of the 93rd Annual Rockland County Volunteer Firemen’s Parade, proudly hosted by our department. At the time of his passing, Al remained the department’s oldest active member with an extraordinary 79 years of continuous service.
Al Magnatta was a leader, a mentor, and a constant presence whose dedication set the standard for generations. His impact on this department and the Rockland County fire service is permanent.
Wake services will be on Friday, January 30, from 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Michael J. Higgins Funeral Home, 321 South Main Street, New City. The Firematic Service will be held at 6:00 PM.
The Funeral Mass will be on Saturday, January 31, at 10:00 AM at St. Paul’s Church, with burial to follow at Gethsemane Cemetery.
We extend our deepest condolences to Al’s family, friends, and all who had the honor of serving alongside him. His legacy will never be forgotten.
