It is with deep sadness that Mahwah Fire Company #1 shares the passing of our brother, former Chief Kenneth Frederick Werring, who was called home on January 14, 2026, at the age of 87.

Ken proudly served Company #1 as a volunteer firefighter and later as Chief, years he often spoke about with great pride. The bonds he formed with his fellow firefighters meant the world to him, and that brotherhood stayed with him long after he relocated to Florida. Ken embodied what it meant to serve — always putting others before himself and leading with quiet strength and humility.

Beyond the firehouse, Ken dedicated more than 30 years to education in Mahwah, teaching at Holy Cross Lutheran School and Joyce Kilmer Elementary School. His impact on students extended far beyond the classroom. One story shared by former member Jim Cottrell truly captures Ken’s lasting influence:

In the mid-1970s, after a tragic house fire in Deer Haven claimed the lives of two parents, Jim interviewed their children during the investigation. The older child explained that “Mr. Werring taught us to feel the door first. If it’s hot, crawl to a window to escape.” That lesson saved their lives.

That single moment is a powerful reminder of Ken’s lifelong commitment to protecting and educating our community — whether in the classroom or on the fireground.

Ken was also a devoted husband to his beloved wife Mary, and together they traveled the country exploring state capitals and national parks. He was deeply rooted in his faith and served his church in many capacities throughout his life, always answering the call to help others.

A Celebration of Life will be held on February 9th at 10:30 a.m. at Lutheran Church of the Cross in Port Charlotte, Florida. Interment will take place at Village Lutheran Church in Bronxville, NY.

Rest easy, Chief. Thank you for your service, your mentorship, and the lives you touched — both in and out of uniform. You will always be part of the Mahwah Fire family.

Ken’s full obituary can be found here