Hinchey, Oberacker Designate Route 28 Bridge Over Esopus Creek the Chief John “JODY” Rossitz Memorial Bridge
November 20, 2025
Senators Michelle Hinchey and Peter Oberacker unveil the John “JODY” Rossitz Memorial Bridge in Shandaken with members of the Rossitz family and volunteer firefighters from Big Indian-Oliverea Fire Company.
Big Indian Fire Chief Jody Rossitz Remembered with Posthumous Bridge Dedication
SHANDAKEN, NY – New York State Senators Michelle Hinchey and Peter Oberacker officially unveiled the John “JODY” Rossitz Memorial Bridge on State Route 28 over Esopus Creek in Shandaken. The designation, established through legislation they championed, honors the late Big Indian-Oliverea Fire Chief and his lifelong service to the community. The senators were joined by members of the Rossitz family, first responders from the Big Indian-Oliverea Fire Company, Shandaken Ambulance, and Woodstock EMS, along with Shandaken Supervisor-Elect Barbara Mansfield, Deputy Supervisor Robert Drake, and community members for a sign-unveiling ceremony on Friday, November 14.
John "Jody" Rossitz devoted his life to the well-being of his neighbors. Across 34 years as a volunteer firefighter and Chief of the Big Indian-Oliverea Fire Company in Shandaken, he earned a reputation for his steady leadership, compassion, and a readiness to help anyone in need. His influence extended well beyond his own department, garnering respect throughout the region’s volunteer fire and EMS community. Following Hurricane Irene in 2011, Jody played a pivotal role in coordinating recovery efforts in the Oliverea Valley, one of the areas hardest hit by the storm.
Senator Michelle Hinchey said, “Our first responders often dedicate their entire lives to serving others, and Fire Chief Jody Rossitz was one of those extraordinary individuals whose commitment to his neighbors in Shandaken and across Ulster County set a standard for all. Naming this bridge in his honor is a permanent and fitting tribute to a man who guided countless residents through their most difficult moments, and will help ensure his legacy continues to inspire the community he loved.”
John "Jody" Rossitz devoted his life to the well-being of his neighbors. Across 34 years as a volunteer firefighter and Chief of the Big Indian-Oliverea Fire Company in Shandaken, he earned a reputation for his steady leadership, compassion, and a readiness to help anyone in need. His influence extended well beyond his own department, garnering respect throughout the region’s volunteer fire and EMS community. Following Hurricane Irene in 2011, Jody played a pivotal role in coordinating recovery efforts in the Oliverea Valley, one of the areas hardest hit by the storm.
Senator Michelle Hinchey said, “Our first responders often dedicate their entire lives to serving others, and Fire Chief Jody Rossitz was one of those extraordinary individuals whose commitment to his neighbors in Shandaken and across Ulster County set a standard for all. Naming this bridge in his honor is a permanent and fitting tribute to a man who guided countless residents through their most difficult moments, and will help ensure his legacy continues to inspire the community he loved.”
Senator Peter Oberacker said, “Chief Jody Rossitz embodied the very best of our volunteer fire service: steady under pressure, endlessly generous with his time, and driven by a deep love for his community. His leadership carried Shandaken through some of its hardest days, and his legacy lives on in every first responder he mentored and every neighbor he helped. Dedicating this bridge in his name ensures that future generations will remember a man who never hesitated to step forward when others needed him most.”
Big Indian-Oliverea Fire Chief Derek Stapleton said, “Thank you to Senators Hinchey and Oberacker for their part in helping to keep Jody’s memory alive and recognize what he meant to our community. It was Jody’s support and willingness to teach his fellow firefighters that has helped me to climb through the ranks and become the Chief today. His dedication to this department and entire community will forever be remembered.”
Big Indian-Oliverea Fire Chief Derek Stapleton said, “Thank you to Senators Hinchey and Oberacker for their part in helping to keep Jody’s memory alive and recognize what he meant to our community. It was Jody’s support and willingness to teach his fellow firefighters that has helped me to climb through the ranks and become the Chief today. His dedication to this department and entire community will forever be remembered.”
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