Obituary of Paul Lang

Cortland Fire Department regrets the passing of 80 year member, past Deputy Chief and World War II Veteran, Paul L. Lang. Paul passed on September 15, 2020 at the Cortland Park Rehabilitation and Nursing Center. He was the son of the late Lewis and Pearl Lang. He was predeceased by his wife of 75 years Martha Lang. He was also pre-deceased by a daughter Patricia Lang Savage, a brother George Lang, and two sisters Hazel Mason and Arleen Rolf. Paul was born on January 25th, 1920. After graduating from Cortland High he worked with his father testing and filling fire extinguishers throughout the county. Paul then went to work as a paid fire fighter for the city of Cortland. In June 1944 he was drafted into the Army. He became a member of Company L, 112TH infantry, 28th infantry division. On December 30th 1944 he arrived in Ardennes to join his company and fight in the battle of the bulge. He served in central Europe and the Rhine land until August 2, 1945, then he returned to the states after VE day and was released from the service November 18, 1945. Paul received several medals for his service and was awarded the Bronze Star. Paul then rejoined the Cortland Fire Department. In 1947 he left the paid fire fighters position and went to work for the Potter Paint Company. He started as a sales and plant person, then all sales and finally became Vice President before retiring. All this time he had re-joined the fire department as a volunteer in the Water Witch Steamer and Hose Co. 1. He had 80 years of service in the fire department during this time he held all the offices possible as well as in the chief's ranks for more than 6yrs. He was Deputy Chief for 2 years and was a life member of the Cortland Fire Department as well as a life member of Cortland County Fire Association, Central New York Fireman's association and New York States Fireman's association. Paul was a life time member of Memorial Baptist Church (now Church of Redeemer). He was a Life Time Member of Post 489 American Legion where he held all the local offices. Paul is survived by two sons, Robert Lang of Walton, New York and Charles (Nancy) Lang of Cortland. He also leaves behind many grandchildren- great grandchildren and great- great grandchildren, along with nieces and nephews. Friends may call Saturday from 10-11:45am at the Wright-Beard Funeral Home. We will be following NYS guidelines regarding capacity, social distancing, and wearing face coverings. Services will be streamed online, at 12 PM Saturday. https://www.facebook.com/wrightbeardfuneralhomeinc In lieu of flowers please consider at donation to American Legion 489 212 Tompkins St, Cortland, NY 13045, Water Witch Steamer and Hose Co 21 Court St Cortland, NY 13045, or Church of the Redeemer 125 Tompkins St. Cortland, NY 13045. To offer online condolences please visit www.wright-beard.com