02/22/2026
Today, we pause to honor and remember Spencerport Fire District life member Robert E. Fowler, 29 years after his line-of-duty death. Bob was devoted to his family and his community, serving as a husband, father, educator, and volunteer firefighter.
On February 22, 1997, Firefighter Fowler was responding to an emergency call during extreme wind conditions when a tree fell and struck his vehicle. Bob was killed instantly while answering the call to serve. His 15-year-old son Tim, a fire Explorer at the time, survived the incident but was seriously injured and trapped inside the vehicle.
Bob’s legacy remains visible throughout our community. A section of Route 259 between Lyell Avenue and Nichols Street proudly bears his name as the Firefighter Robert Fowler Memorial Highway, formally dedicated in October 2023.
We also recognize and thank Bob’s wife, Gail, whose continued work with the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation ensures his service and sacrifice are never forgotten.
A memorial honoring Firefighter Fowler stands in front of our firehouse at 175 Lyell Avenue for those who wish to learn more and pay their respects.