Jan. 1, 1955—Dec. 5, 2009

Paul R. Oehmler, a leader in local and statewide firefighter organizations, died Saturday in Millard Fillmore Suburban Hospital, Amherst, after a brief illness. He was 54.

Mr. Oehmler was president of Hutchinson Hose Fire Company and chairman of the Williamsville Exempt Firemen Association. Also, he was on the board of directors of the Firemen’s Association of the State of New York. He also had held several other positions in Western New York firefighting organizations.

Born in Rochester, Mr. Oehmler attended Williamsville public schools and attended Erie Community College.

He was an owner and president of Air Tool Repair, a family- run Cheektowaga company that began in 1987.

Surviving are his wife, the former Ann Horey; two daughters, Tammy and Robin; his mother, Ethel; and two brothers, Tim E. and Jack E.

A memorial service will be at 11 a. m. Saturday in St. Stephens Bethlehem United Church of Christ, 750 Wehrle Drive, Amherst.