It is with great sadness and regret to announce that our brother, Firefighter Robert "Bobby" Allen, passed away the evening of March 18th 2024.
The son of Retired Battalion Chief Edward Allen, Robert was appointed to the Paterson Fire Department on May 18th, 1992. He was a first responder to the WTC on September 11th, 2001. Bobby has held multiple elected seats in the Paterson Firefighters Association, including President 1997-1998, Vice President 2004-2005, Recording Secretary 1994-1996, 1999-2000, and 2003, and State Executive 2014-2015. He was also Chairman of the Legislative Committee for the State FMBA.
Bobby was an exemplary union member and an institution of knowledge and resolution. His work with the Legislative Committee helped to enact multiple bills within the state. He always ensured that the firefighters of New Jersey were represented in the Capitol. Then, he'd return to ensure all the members knew the pulse there.
He was a great storyteller, able to share lore with great detail, imagery, and recollection of details. He also had some of the worst, and best, jokes you'd hear. So, naturally, Allen was the de facto Master of Ceremonies for Paterson Fire functions. He always did it with professionalism, grace, and just enough silliness to keep everyone engaged.
Above all, his friendship and dedication to the membership were inspirational. Our love and thoughts go out to Bobby, his wife, and the Allen family and friends.
Rest well, Brother, we will take it from here.
The PFA, PFOA, and Paterson Fire Department Chief of Department Alejandro Alicea presented this shadowbox, made by Retired PFD Captain Scott Parkin, to brother Bobby Allen on Sunday, March 10th, prior to his passing.
Capt. Parkin is an artist with his work on shadowboxes for all of our retirees. Although Bobby had not officially retired, we all felt gifting him and his family this visual capsule of his career would be a kind thank you. No gift, words, or praise could ever be able to encapsulate the impact Bobby Allen had on the PFD, PFA or all the firefighters of NJ; but it was something he always spoke on looking forward to receiving. We felt it was the least we could do.
Inscription reads:
"It is with heartfelt appreciation and utmost gratitude we honor your 32 years of friendship, service and sacrifice not only to the members of the Paterson Fire Department past and present, but to the citizens of Paterson New Jersey.
Your name and work ethic epitomizes and embodies the word brotherhood.
On all fronts, you worked tirelessly for the safety and well being not only of Paterson Firefighters, but all firefighters around the state of New Jersey.
For that dedication, we will always owe you a debt of gratitude.
Always cool and calm either on the fire ground or in the firehouse your knowledge, genuine good nature and sense of humor set the example of one to emulate.
For these reasons and many more, your brothers and sisters are forever grateful and say thank you for a job well done.
From the entire membership of the Paterson Fire. Department
March 2024"
The funeral service for our brother, Firefighter Robert "Bobby Allen
Tuesday, March 26, 2024, 10:00 AM
The Cathedral of St. John the Baptist
381 Grand St
Paterson, NJ 07505
(corner of Main & Grand, Paterson.)
In respect to Bobby's wishes, there will not be a funeral home visitation.
All uniformed personnel are asked to assemble in Class A Dress Blue Uniforms at 0900hrs in front of the Cathedral. Parking for all attending the funeral will be available at the Parking Authority Garage # 10 on Curtis Place & Ellison St.
Shuttle service from there to the Cathedral will begin at 0830hrs.
Carpooling is suggested, as heavy traffic is expected.
