Township 7 workers mourn loss of colleague, friend

NEW BERN, Craven County — Members of the squad at Township 7 Fire Department in New Bern continue mourning the loss of co-worker and friend, Ralph Deblasi.

Deblasi died on June 10 after a vehicle accident on Brices Creek Road.

According to members of the department, Deblasi was a pillar for the younger firefighters and someone they looked up to.

Bunting flags have been displayed in front of the department and many say Deblasi was dedicated to the service of being a fireman.

"A senior man is someone who is highly revered In the fire service and someone who has a ton of knowledge to share with any and everyone, Ralph was our senior man. Everyone would come up to him especially if they had a maintenance or general question he was the forefront," said Nicci Marcy of Township 7.

"We want people to remember him for his leadership and dedication to the community."

DeBlasi’s memorial service will be on Saturday at 10 a.m. at Cotton Funeral Home in New Bern.