The Mineola community and Mineola Fire Department were saddened on October 14 by the loss of former chief of the department and warden James G. Rowe. Chief Rowe had over 42 years of service to the community, having joined the Mineola Fire Department in January of 1964 at the age of 26.

During his time as a member of the fire department, he saw dramatic changes occurring in the fire service. From the beginning, he took a leadership role in the Mineola Fire Department, which began when he was elected president of Engine Company 3 in 1968. After his term as president, he took over the finances of Company 3, having been elected treasurer and serving in that position for six years until he began to ascend the officer ranks within his company.

In 1976, Rowe was elected by his company to the position of second lieutenant. His responsibility continued to increase as he rose to the rank of first lieutenant in 1978 and in 1979 assumed the position of captain of Company 3 where he remained until 1982. Running the fire-fighting operations of an engine company is no small task especially when doing it on a volunteer basis but Rowe was tapped by his peers to take on an even bigger challenge when they elected him assistant chief in 1985. So began the progression of Chief Rowe through the senior leadership ranks of the Mineola Fire Department culminating with his election to chief of department from 1989 through 1991.

Jimmy was never satisfied with doing just what needed to be done. He always excelled and went beyond his duties to serve the Mineola Fire Department. In 1976 he was one of the originators and charter members of the Mineola Junior Fire Department. It was through his hard work and contributions along with other concerned firefighters that the junior fire department was organized and has continued to grow and blossom into an organization that has been recognized both nationally and internationally as one of the premier youth firefighting organizations in existence. Jimmy also lent his leadership and organizational talents to many firematic organizations including the International Association of Fire Chiefs, the New York State Association of Fire Chiefs, Fire Chiefs Council of Nassau County, Fireman's Association of the State of New York, Southern NY Volunteer Fireman's Association and the Nassau County Fireman's Association.

Chief Rowe continued to serve his company and the department as a member of the Fire Council representing Company 3. He served two separate times from 1982 to 1985 and again from 1994 until his passing. From 1994 to 2005 Chief Rowe continued to apply his business knowledge to benefit the department by serving as department treasurer. Jimmy was also instrumental in the planning and success of the Southern NY Volunteer Fireman's Association parade and drill in 1984 and the Nassau County Fireman's Association parade and drill this past year having served as general chairman of both these events.

Ex-Chief and Warden James G. Rowe will be missed not only by his family in the Mineola Fire Department but also by the community that he so selflessly served for so many years.