THE Australian flag flew at half-mast at the Laurieton Fire and Rescue Station on Monday, 31 March, as nearly 100 mourners gathered to pay their respects at a memorial service for retired firefighter Frits Jozef Slieker.
Mr Slieker, a revered member of the Camden Haven community, passed away last month at the age of 71, surrounded by loved ones.
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Mr Slieker had an extensive firefighting career, including in his homeland The Netherlands.
After his relocation to Australia, he joined Volunteer Rescue NSW (VRA) in Wagga Wagga.
In 2001, Mr Slieker joined Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW) station 480 in Wagga, before transferring to Laurieton (Station 358) in 2009, where he worked until his retirement in 2022.
Mr Slieker served his local community with distinction, and lent his extensive skill set to numerous disaster responses statewide.
His bravery and dedication earned him numerous accolades, including the National Emergency Medal, the Long Service Good Conduct First Clasp, the National Service Medal, a Premier’s Citation, and a Unit Commendation for Meritorious Service.
Mr Slieker touched the lives of his family, colleagues and the broader community, with his many contributions being acknowledged during the memorial service.
At the conclusion of the service, a lone piper played “Mull of Kintyre” and “Amazing Grace” as family and community members left the chapel.
As a sign of deep respect the funeral procession was led by NSW Police and NSW Fire and Rescue vehicles.
As the procession made its way through the streets of Laurieton, it was led through an arc of water sprayed by local firefighters, a fitting and final salute to a hero who dedicated his life to serving others.
Upon reaching the edge of the Laurieton NSWFR district, all rescue vehicles pulled to the side, allowing for the convoy of cars to proceed to the crematorium at Kew.
Laurieton Fire and Rescue Captain Les King shared with NOTA the touching final conversation he had with Mr Slieker.
“In my last conversation with Frits we both spoke of, and agreed that his name, Frits Jozef Slieker, would be placed below the horn on the windscreen of Laurieton’s NSWFR Vehicle, T358,” said Captain King.
“It will be now known as Frits.
“And he will always be with us.”
Mr Slieker leaves behind a legacy of kindness and devotion.
He will be sadly missed by his loving wife Yoka, and family members Brian, Heather, Evie, Mike, Melanie, Ingrid, Ben, Saskia, Troy, Sonny and Mila.
By Kim AMBROSE
