Clarence Donald (Buddy) Brocklebank Sr. Obituary, Death: Honoring the Life, Legacy, and Unwavering Commitment of Oceanport’s Fire Department Chief, Who Passed Away Leaving Behind a Monumental Legacy of Service, Community Leadership, and Dedication to Public Safety
The town of Oceanport, New Jersey, has lost one of its most cherished and respected members, Clarence Donald (Buddy) Brocklebank Sr., at the age of 93. His passing is not just a loss for the Oceanport Fire Department, where he was a Life Member and former Chief, but also for the entire community, which he served with selfless dedication for decades. It is with heavy hearts that we announce this heartbreaking news. Buddy’s contributions to Oceanport were immeasurable, as he became a beloved figure whose presence and influence touched every corner of the community. His death on October 14, 2024, marked the end of an era, but his legacy will live on in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing him. The Oceanport Fire Department, the town’s residents, and countless individuals whom he helped during his years of service are left to grieve a man who embodied the spirit of public service and compassion.
Buddy was not just a firefighter; he was a symbol of courage, leadership, and dedication. From the time he first donned his firefighter uniform, it became clear that he was not only passionate about protecting lives and property but also about forging strong relationships with his fellow firefighters and community members. Over the course of his life, Buddy rose through the ranks of the department, eventually becoming its Chief. His time in this position was marked by numerous achievements, innovations, and a tireless commitment to ensuring the department was always prepared for any emergency. As Chief, Buddy made significant improvements to the department’s operations, from upgrading equipment to instituting new training programs that ensured the firefighters of Oceanport were among the most skilled and dedicated in the region. His ability to lead with grace and authority earned him the respect and admiration of all those he worked with.
For those who served under him, Buddy was more than just a leader. He was a mentor, a friend, and a source of unwavering support. His leadership extended far beyond the firehouse, as Buddy became a key figure in the broader Oceanport community. He was always there to lend a hand, offer advice, or simply be a comforting presence during difficult times. Whether it was organizing community events, volunteering at local charities, or simply chatting with residents on his walks around town, Buddy’s impact on Oceanport was felt in countless ways. He was known for his kindness, humility, and his ability to connect with people from all walks of life. In many ways, he was the heart and soul of Oceanport, and his absence will leave a void that will be impossible to fill.
One of the most remarkable aspects of Buddy’s life was his unrelenting dedication to the town he called home. His love for Oceanport was evident in everything he did, and his efforts to make the town a better, safer place were tireless. Buddy’s work with the fire department was just one of the many ways he gave back to the community. He was involved in various boards and committees, always ensuring that the interests of the people of Oceanport were represented and protected. His leadership was instrumental in shaping the town into the vibrant, close-knit community it is today. Through his work in public safety, Buddy helped to foster a sense of security and trust that residents knew they could rely on in times of need. His legacy is one of service, commitment, and a deep love for his fellow citizens.
The outpouring of grief following Buddy’s passing has been a testament to the profound impact he had on those around him. Messages of condolence have flooded in from current and former firefighters, town officials, and residents, all of whom speak of Buddy with the utmost admiration and respect. His dedication to the fire department, his leadership, and his willingness to go above and beyond for others have left a lasting impression that will be felt for generations. The Oceanport Fire Department has lost a true hero, and the community has lost a man whose generosity and compassion were unmatched. Buddy’s influence on Oceanport will be remembered for years to come, as his spirit continues to inspire those who follow in his footsteps.
Buddy’s contributions to the fire department were not limited to his time as Chief. Even after retiring from active duty, he remained an integral part of the department’s operations, offering guidance and support to the next generation of firefighters. His wealth of experience, coupled with his genuine passion for firefighting, made him an invaluable resource to the department. Many of the younger firefighters looked up to Buddy as a role model, and his lessons on bravery, teamwork, and dedication will undoubtedly be carried on through them. The values he instilled in his fellow firefighters—values of hard work, perseverance, and selflessness—are now deeply ingrained in the department’s culture. His presence at the firehouse will be sorely missed, but his legacy will live on through the men and women he trained and mentored.
The impact of Buddy’s work extended beyond the fire department and into the lives of countless residents. Over the years, he responded to numerous emergencies, from house fires to medical emergencies, always arriving with a calm and reassuring presence. For many, Buddy was a hero who saved lives, protected homes, and brought comfort during some of their darkest moments. His compassion and commitment to helping others were evident in every call he answered. He treated every emergency, no matter how big or small, with the same level of seriousness and care. Buddy’s approach to his work was not just about responding to emergencies; it was about serving the community and ensuring that everyone felt safe and cared for. His contributions in this regard are immeasurable.
As a family man, Buddy was equally dedicated to his loved ones. He was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather, and his family was the center of his world. Throughout his life, he made sure to balance his demanding responsibilities with the fire department with his commitments at home. His wife, children, and grandchildren were his pride and joy, and he always made time for them, even during the busiest of times. Buddy’s family has expressed how deeply they will miss his presence, his wisdom, and his unwavering love. They have also spoken about how proud they are of the legacy he has left behind, not just within their family but also within the community. His love for his family was apparent in everything he did, and they, in turn, supported him throughout his many years of service to the town of Oceanport.
In addition to his role as a firefighter, Buddy was a man of many talents and interests. He had a deep love for the outdoors and could often be found spending his free time fishing, hiking, or simply enjoying nature. His passion for the outdoors was something he shared with his family and friends, and many of his fondest memories were made during camping trips, fishing excursions, and hikes through the countryside. Buddy’s love for nature was yet another example of the many ways he connected with the world around him. It was this connection—to people, to his community, and to the environment—that defined who he was and how he lived his life.
As we reflect on Buddy’s life and legacy, it is clear that his passing marks the end of an extraordinary era. His contributions to the fire department, the town of Oceanport, and the countless lives he touched will never be forgotten. Buddy’s unwavering sense of duty, his compassion for others, and his love for his community are qualities that will continue to inspire those who had the privilege of knowing him. The Oceanport Fire Department has lost one of its finest members, and the town has lost a beloved leader. But Buddy’s spirit will live on through the memories, stories, and lessons he left behind.
In closing, we offer our deepest condolences to the Brocklebank family. We know that no words can truly capture the depth of the loss they are feeling, but we hope that they find comfort in knowing that Buddy’s life was one of great significance. He made a lasting impact on the town of Oceanport and the lives of so many people. His contributions to public safety, his leadership within the fire department, and his dedication to serving others will be remembered for generations to come. Buddy, you will be missed, but your legacy will live on forever. Rest in peace, knowing that your service, your sacrifices, and your love for your community will never be forgotten.
