Dec. 9, 1921—June 24, 2009

Norman Rimer, a longtime firefighter and decorated veteran of World War II, died Wednesday in his East Aurora home. He was 87.

A longtime Town of Niagara resident, Mr. Rimer was born in Jefferson County, Pa.

During the war, he served with the Army Air Forces with the 5th Bomber Group, stationed in the Philippines.

Mr. Rimer worked for 23 years as a millwright and heavy equipment operator at the General Motors plant in the Town of Tonawanda. He also had worked for Certain-Teed Products Corp. and Olin Mathieson Chemical Corp.

He was a life member of the Niagara Fire Company No. 1 and was honored for more than 40 years of service, and was named Fireman of the Year on three occasions.

He also was a member of the Niagara County Fire Police, where he served as captain for two years. He also was active in state and regional firefighters organizations.

Survivors include his wife, the former Alta Marie Shepler; and two daughters, Kathie Swinamer and Linda Eichelberger.

A memorial service will be held at 11 a. m. today in Niagara Presbyterian Church, 3712 Military Road, Town of Niagara .