HOMER, NY (607NewsNow) – The Homer Fire Department is mourning the loss of another key figure.

On January 8, Homer FD shared on Facebook that long-time member Ralph Thornton passed away.

Thornton served with Homer Fire for over 50 years. The village’s municipal ice rink was recently dedicated in his name.

Thornton’s passing comes just weeks after the death of former chief Mahlon Irish, Jr.