Flags were at half-staff Wednesday at the Piermont Fire Station for former chief Francis "Gizzy" Taulman.

Taulman, who served for 54 years as a firefighter, died of a heart attack on Monday.

His nephew, who now serves as fire chief, describes his uncle as an inspirational leader. "He was a great mentor to many of us, including me. He upheld the tradition in our family that my son and I are trying to continue," says Chief Daniel Goswick.

A memorial service for Taulman was held Thursday in Nyack.