‘Doly' Dolan dies at 102

OGDENSBURG -- The Borough of Ogdensburg has lost its oldest citizen. William C. “Doly” Dolan died Oct, 8 at the age of 102. The Advertiser-News had the opportunity to speak with him just before his 102nd birthday in May of this year as he reminisced about “simpler times.” Dolan was born in 1903, lived, married Ruth, his wife of 68 years, and raised his children, all in Ogdensburg in the home they built in 1938. The walls of their home proudly display the “key to the city” presented him on his 100th birthday, beside a framed flag that flew over the White House on that day and a letter of congratulations from President and Mrs. Bush. He said it was a night he’ll never forget as he was also honored with a dinner by his fellow firefighters with some 200 people attending. The fire department played an important role in Doly’s life serving 1926-1951, and as chief 1944-45. When Ogdensburg celebrated its 60th anniversary in 1978, he was bestowed the honor of the parade’s grand marshal. Doly was looking forward to this year’s firefighters parade and his annual ride atop the fire truck. Unfortunately, it was not to be. His dedication to the fire department was well known. “Doly was Ogdensburg’s fire department,” said Fire Chief Mark Batty. “When anyone spoke about the department, they thought of Doly. Even when he no longer was an active member, he still came and manned the radio during fires. If we needed anything, he would get on the radio and get us what was needed.” He lived surrounded by his three children and their families, Bill and Rebecca who are in Ogdensburg, and son Dave nearby in Lafayette. His life was celebrated with a Mass of Christian Burial at St. Thomas of Aquin RC Church where he was an active member and volunteer. The family asks that memorial gifts be sent to the Ogdensburg Fire Department, P.O. Box 215, Ogdensburg, 07439.