Retired Stamford Firefighter Dies At 93

STAMFORD, CT — The Stamford Fire Department announced this week the death of Raymond Knebel, a retired firefighter who served more than 40 years with the department. He was 93 years old.

According to his obituary, Knebel died on May 30. He was a lifelong resident of Stamford, having been born in the city and grown up in the Waterside section of Stamford. He was also a graduate of Stamford High School.

After serving in the military, Knebel worked as an auto mechanic for Studebaker before joining the Stamford Fire Department, where he served honorably for 43 years, primarily at Station 2 at the old South End fire station. (To sign up for Stamford breaking news alerts and more, click here.)

Knebel loved fishing and being on the water, and would often go fishing before and after work. He was also a lifelong member of the Halloween Yacht Club, serving as secretary and rear commodore while an active member.

He was a master craftsman with his hands, and had a passion for doing various construction, painting and remodeling projects, whether at home or for family members and friends. He was also an avid reader of "anything that he could learn from."

Knebel was predeceased by his loving wife of 47 years, Sophie Sirade, his beloved son, Robert Knebel, and dear brother, Douglas Knebel. He is survived by his son, Jeffrey Knebel of Stamford, daughter-in-law, Charlotte Knebel of Norwalk, grandson Andrew and his wife Tara, and granddaughters Katrina, Lauren, Lindsey and Nicole. He is also survived by his longtime companion Miriam Berrios, as well as a number of nieces and nephews.

To read the full obituary, and for information regarding funeral and burial services, visit www.bosakfuneralhome.com.