Palermo Volunteer Fire Department

10/25/2026

10/24/2026

We were so happy to be a part of the Palermo Tiger Cubs PTC trunk or treat at Palermo Elementary! 🎃

We LOVE coming to these events and enjoyed seeing everyone’s costumes! Don’t forget to
join us at the fire station this upcoming Saturday, October 31st for our Trick-or-Treat event! 🍬
👇🏻
Trick-Or-Treat at the Palermo Fire Department

Pictured from left to right:
Matthew Herrington, Carl Petrie, Michelle Lacey, Jen Lombardi, Justin Lombardi, and Mark Joss

08/05/2026

Come out and see us at the Mexico farmers market!!

06/01/2026

In Loving Memory
John M. Rice
June 3, 1958 - May 26, 2026

PALERMO, NY - John M. Rice, 67 of Palermo, NY; passed away unexpectedly on May 26, 2026.

John was a dairy farmer and owner of Rice Farms. He was a 20 year member of the Palermo Volunteer Fire Department and Highway Superintendent for the Town of Palermo for eight years. Upon retiring from milking cows, John helped his wife in the flower shop prepping “weeds” (that he spent his entire life trying to get rid of) and delivering flowers,

He was predeceased by his parents and two brothers, Tom and Jim.

John is survived by his wife Mary Mannise-Rice, his sons Michael and Marc, several brother and sisters-in-laws and nieces and nephews.

Per John’s wishes, there will be no services. Arrangements are in care of Harter Funeral Home, Inc. Mexico, NY.

Please share memories and condolences at https://www.harterfuneralhome.com/obituaries/John-M-Rice?obId=48549946

05/29/2026

It is with deep sadness that we announce the recent passing of Past Chief John Rice. John dedicated 20 years of service to our department and was a proud Life Member who served our organization and community with great dedication, pride, and commitment. Throughout his years with the department, John made a lasting impact on countless members and residents through his hard work and friendship. John climbed the ranks starting in 1980 as a Lieutenant, Captain in 1983, Assistant Chief from 1984 to 1989 and Fire Chief from 1994 to 1996.
John was more than just a member of our department, he was family to many. His dedication to the fire service and the community he cared so deeply about will never be forgotten. We extend our thoughts and prayers to his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him during this difficult time.
He will be truly and deeply missed.

04/27/2026

Saturday night we had our annual banquet and the installation of our officers for the 2026 year!
Here is this year’s lineup!

2026 Fire Line Officers:
Chief • Mark Joss
1st Assistant Chief • Andy Denery
2nd Assistant Chief • Matt Stephenson
Captain • Matt Herrington
Captain • Don Hough
Lieutenant • Joe Pawlikowski

2026 Executive Officers:
President • Michelle Lacey
Vice President • Bob Loomis
Treasure • Carl Petrie
Assistant Treasure • Don Hough
Secretary • Stacey Tarbell
Assistant Secretary • Liz Pachoud
Executive Board • Paul Falbo
Executive Board • Stacey Tarbell