Newark Fire Department Chief John Centanni retires after more than 30 years serving the city and its residents.
NEWARK -- John Centanni has spent the better part of his life as a Newark firefighter.
The 51-year-old fire chief rose through the ranks after joining the department in 1986, and has dedicated his life to ensuring the safety of Newark's residents. On Monday, Centanni worked his last shift before retirement.
"You'd be hard pressed to find a bigger cheerleader of the Newark Fire Department," Raul Malave, the city's assistant public safety director, told dozens of friends, family and colleagues who'd gathered on Clifton Street Monday for Centanni's ceremonial sendoff.
"As chief, he was creative, tenacious, steadfast and laser focused," Malave said.
Centanni, of East Hanover, previously served as the chief of staff for former Newark Fire Director David Giordano before being tapped as chief in 2010.
Earlier in his career, Centanni and several of his colleagues earned medals for their roles in a series of rescue operations, and he eventually secured the rank of captain for Engine Co. 6, based on Springfield Avenue in the Central Ward.
On Monday, an enormous American flag was hoisted over Clinton, as fire trucks and emergency vehicles lined the street in front of the Newark Public Safety Department's headquarters.
Newark Sheriff Armando Fontoura, who was among a number of public safety officials who came to praise Centanni's service to the city, said Centanni did all "we can ask of a public servant."
Congressman Donald Payne Jr. said he "came to pay respects to a gentleman that has committed his life to the City of Newark."
Centanni's family, including his wife, Joan; his sons, Johnny, 27, and Gerard, 26, both Newark fire fighters; and his daughter, Ariana, 23, stood beside him as he held back tears addressing the crowd.
"Outside of my family, this is the best thing that's happened to me," Centanni said. "This great, great city that I love so much...and being a part of this fire department."
Michael Anthony Adams may be reached at madams@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @MichaelAdams317. Find NJ.com on Facebook.