Lynbrook Village Honors Fred Fusswinkel

At Monday's village board meeting, Det. Fred Fusswinkel was honored for his 28 years of service to the Lynbrook Police Department. He recently announced his retirement from the force.

"All I can say is you don't know how valuable a person is until they're gone," said Lynbrook Police Chief Joseph Neve. "Whether there was a problem or a project to be conducted or solved, Det. Fusswinkel was there to use his abilities and get the job done."

Lynbrook Mayor Brian Curran presented Fusswinkel with an official Village of Lynbrook Citation, and referred to the longtime detective as an "unbelievable human being," who worked tirelessly to serve his community.

But Fusswinkel was probably best known for his work in the Lynbrook School District, where he regularly lectured students on the dangers of drinking, smoking,  gang violence and Internet safety. And his contributions did not go unnoticed.

"Det. Fusswinkel has been an invaluable friend to the Lynbrook School District for countless years," said Lynbrook Superintendent Dr. Santo Barbarino. "Given his time and energy that he unselfishly dedicated to his role in our schools, he was often considered by many as an unofficial member of the Lynbrook staff. His extraordinary experience and caring heart are special gifts enjoyed by an eternally grateful Lynbrook School District."

Village Trustee Bill Hendrick echoed those comments.

"You were the type of cop that got into school and had kids respect cops," Hendrick said of Fusswinkel at the village board meeting. "A police department needs many different types of police officers — they need people who want to jump the fences and be detectives … we got them. We need people to keep the traffic control … but we need someone who goes in and gets the respect of our children, and Fred, that was you for so many years."

Fusswinkel is also a longtime member of the Lynbrook Expo Committee, and has volunteered his time with the Lynbrook Rotary Club.

Fighting back emotion as he said his goodbyes, Fusswinkel thanked members of the village administration, police department, and many others who had contributed to his 28 great years with the force.

"It's easy to do a job when you're surrounded by great people," he said. "It's hard to leave … it's a real group of professionals that I worked with in this village."