The Marion Fire Department and many in town are remembering retired Deputy Chief Peter Robertson who passed away Thursday morning.

Robertson served on the department from 1964 until 2000 said current Deputy Chief Joe Dayton. Robertson was promoted to deputy chief in 1985 and held the position until his retirement.

During those years, close friend and fellow retired Deputy Chief Teddy Laycock said, “He gave completely of himself during that time.”

“He certainly was a cornerstone to the advancement of the Fire Department,” said Robertson’s long-time friend. “His ability to work with the rescue truck, as far as the jaws of life, and his instruction was second to none.”

The two joined the department together and knew each other since childhood.

“This was a major loss to me,” he said. “We were both kids from parents with only one child in the family, and we were like brothers.”

The two met daily for coffee, said Laycock, but he’s not the only one who will miss Robertson.

“Him and I were brought up in this town,” he said. “The town has lost one of their finest sons. He's not one of those guys who only knows a few people.”

Laycock said it appears his friend passed away in his sleep.

Robertson’s wife passed away a few years ago and he is survived by his daughter and granddaughter.

On Friday, the Fire Department honored Robertson by placing the ladder truck in front of the station with an ax and the uniform for a deputy chief.

Visiting hours are Jan. 13 from 5 to 7 p.m. at Chapman, Cole & Gleason in Wareham. The funeral will be held the following day at 10 a.m. at Evergreen Cemetery on Mill Street (Route 6) in Marion.