WURTSBORO — Robert Cordani was the kind of guy who always tried to help others. That was the consensus among his friends, family and anyone who knew him.

Cordani, 62, died last Saturday trying to help his neighbor, who had gone into cardiac arrest.

Just before 6 p.m. on April 14, the Wurtsboro Fire Dept. was dispatched along with EMS and Wurtsboro Police to a cardiac arrest call in Wurtsboro Hills.

Cordani responded to his neighbor's house when he heard the call on his scanner. After arriving and starting CPR, Cordani collapsed and went into cardiac arrest himself. Firefighters, EMTs, paramedics from mobilemedic as well as NYSP attempted to revive Cordani. He was transported to Orange Regional Medical Center (ORMC) in Middletown and, after doctors exhausted all options, he was pronounced deceased. The neighbor Cordani tried to help also died.

“Our thoughts go out to Robert's family and friends,” said Chief Rich Dunn of the Wurtsboro Fire Dept. “He had just recently retired and was planning on coming back as a more active member because he had more time.”

Cordani was a court officer for the Town of Mamakating for many years, as well as a talented musician who played drums for the Mickey Barnett Band and the Search & Rescue Orchestra. He had also served as a member of the Mamakating First Aid Squad.

In his free time, Cordani enjoyed making wine and spending time with his cat “Vino.” He is survived by his wife of eight years, Alma.

“It's a sad situation. Bob dropped what he was doing to help his neighbor and it ended tragically,” said Chief Dunn. “He was an all around great guy. He was very concerned about his community and tried to contribute however he could.”

Firematic Services will be held on Friday, April 20 at 7:30 p.m. at the VanInwegen- Kenny funeral home in Wurtsboro. Anyone wishing to attend is asked to be at the Wurtsboro Firehouse by 7 p.m. in full dress uniform or appropriate attire.

Funeral services will be held Saturday, April 21, at 11 a.m. at St. Joseph's Catholic Church in Wurtsboro.

“Bob's generosity and love for his community is what made him so special. His attitude and love for life and his love for his fellow person touched many people. His contributions to this Department will not soon be forgotten and nor shall he,” Chief Dunn said.