NORMAN ROWENS

Norman Rowens joined the Riviera Beach Volunteer Fire Department at the age of 16. Since that time, the fire department was his life. According to his wife, Gladys, he put the fire department first and family second. He was a life member and remained very active until his death on 24 July 1988 at the age of 62.

Norman served on the administrative side as President for a few years and Financial Secretary for many, many years. On the suppression side, he served as Lieutenant.

Norman was extremely active in all fundraising activities of the fire department. He worked carnival every year. Every Friday night he could be found working bingo. Years ago, Kurtz’s Beach held bingo every Sunday in the summer and Norman was there making money for the fire department.

Norman enjoyed playing cards at the fire house and the time spent with others. He was also an active participant in the various parades.

Norman was active for approximately 6-years in the International Rescue and First Aid Competitions held each year. The competitions were held in Baltimore, Ohio, Philadelphia, Canada, Virginia, and Florida. Of those years, the team won third place in the Canada competition and first place in the Florida completion. They also won one other year. The team included Edwin “Boots” Raynor also of Riviera Beach.

Norman always attended the monthly Anne Arundel County Volunteer Firemen’s Association meetings and was an active participant. He served as a Trustee from 1976-1987. He was inducted in the Hall of Fame in 1997.

Norman attended the Maryland State Firemen’s Association convention in Ocean City each year. He worked alongside Bob Smith for many, many years making sure the convention was a success.

Norman retired as a mail carrier for the United States Post Office.