Haverstraw is in mourning today following the unexpected passing of longtime Village Trustee and Fire Commissioner, Rafael “Rafaelito” Bueno Sr., on November 25. The deeply respected public servant, a cornerstone of the community for decades, was 66 years old.
- Who: Rafael “Rafaelito” Bueno Sr., 66
- Role: Haverstraw Village Trustee & Fire Commissioner
- Legacy: Over 20 years on the Village Board
- Community Impact: Also served 24 years with the Haverstraw Fire Department
A Legacy of Unwavering Service
Bueno’s legacy is etched into the very fabric of Haverstraw. First appointed to the Village Board in 2003, he dedicated more than two decades to public service. In his pivotal role as Fire Commissioner, he worked tirelessly to support the area’s emergency services, ensuring the safety of countless residents.
Beyond his work on the board, Bueno was a successful barber who immigrated to the United States from the Dominican Republic, building a life rooted in hard work and family. His warm personality made him a beloved and familiar face throughout the village.
Tributes Pour In for a “Committed Leader”
The community’s grief was palpable as tributes began to surface. The Relief Hose Company No. 3, where Bueno served for 24 years as both a member and captain of the Fire Police, announced his death with “deep regret.” Colleagues remembered him as a “committed leader” and a steady presence whose “devotion to the village never wavered.” His passing leaves a profound void for his family, friends, and the entire Haverstraw community he served with such dedication.
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