A Grateful Department Says Goodbye to a Dear Friend - A Legend
By Photographer Frank Di Pentima
February 24, 2018
On Saturday, February 24th, the Oakland Volunteer Fire Department, Oakland Volunteer First Aid Squad and Oakland Police Department, along with countless friends, family and residents said goodbye to Lester Woodward who passed away at age 91 having served the OVFD for over 60 years.
All the members of the OVFD will miss Les greatly and we are all better for having known Les, having learned from him and more importantly having been befriended by a man who was much more than a volunteer fireman, he was a true friend.
We are comforted by the knowledge that while Heroes Get Remembered, Legends Never Die. Lester Woodward was a true legend!
Our family will be forever grateful to the OVFD for their hospitality this past weekend, as well as to the other departments and neighboring communities that participated in honoring my Dad, Lester Woodward, as he was laid to rest on Saturday. OVFD, you went over and above in the incredible tribute that you paid to my Dad!! More importantly, thank you for being his family for so many years.
William J Woodward and family
February 27, 2018 at 12:35 PM
Once again Oakland Fire Department displayed their commitment and brotherhood while honoring Uncle Les for his service to the town and OVFD. Your efforts were appreciated by family and friends. Many years ago you gave a wonderful send off to my Dad and Les' brother, Bill Woodward, but this even exceeded that. I thank you on behalf of our family and I'm proud to be part of the extended family of this department. Oakland is truly blessed to be protected by such fine men and women.
