Senate Resolution No. 698

BY: Senator RATH

MOURNING the death of Melvin Spoth, renowned
firefighter, distinguished citizen and devoted
member of his community

WHEREAS, It is the custom of this Legislative Body to pay tribute to
citizens of the State of New York whose lifework and civic endeavor
served to enhance the quality of life in their communities and the great
State of New York; and

WHEREAS, Melvin Spoth of Amherst, New York, died on April 7, 2021,
after a brief illness; and

WHEREAS, Melvin Spoth joined the Transit Fire Company, now known as
the East Amherst Fire Department (EAFD), in 1963, where he remained an
active member until his death; and

WHEREAS, Throughout his illustrious tenure with the department,
which traversed more than five decades, Melvin Spoth served in numerous
leadership positions, including Chief, Assistant Chief, Captain,
Lieutenant, Secretary, President, Chairman of the Board/Board member and
Fire Police; and

WHEREAS, Despite experiencing the worst possible tragedy when his
son, Mitchell Spoth, died in the line of duty in 1985 from injuries
sustained while fighting an arson fire, this extraordinary man continued
to tirelessly serve the East Amherst Fire Department and the residents
of its community; and

WHEREAS, In his free time, Melvin Spoth enjoyed many years of
coaching and playing on the East Amherst Fire Department softball and
bowling teams; he also enjoyed competitive Euchre games after monthly
meetings and playing in the EAFD golf league; and

WHEREAS, With a steadfast and unwavering commitment to his
profession and his community, Melvin Spoth truly earned the respect of
the Western New York Volunteer Fire Service and the greater Western New
York community for his unselfish dedication and devotion; and

WHEREAS, In addition to his son, Melvin Spoth is predeceased by his
beloved wife, Arlene; brother, Richard and sister-in-law Margaret; he is
survived by three children, Norene, Glenn and Gary; six grandchildren,
Brittany, Dilara, Nicholas, Burak, Kyle and Zekeriya; and a sister,
Donna (Andy); as well as nieces, nephews and his loving dog, Jenna; and

WHEREAS, Melvin Spoth's infinite selflessness and benevolence will
shine on through his family's vivid and happy memories; his insight and
strength will forever serve as a beacon of love, light and hope to the
countless lives he touched; and

WHEREAS, Armed with a humanistic spirit and imbued with a sense of
compassion, Melvin Spoth leaves behind a legacy which will long endure
the passage of time and will remain as a comforting memory to all who
were privileged to have known and loved such an amazing man; he will be

deeply missed and truly merits the grateful tribute of this Legislative
Body; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
mourn the death of Melvin Spoth, and express its deepest condolences to
his family; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to the family of Melvin Spoth.