Name:  Gloria Peters

Age:  78

Hometown:  Macungie

Family:  She and her husband, Robert, were married 50 years until he died in 2001.

“I had three sons, but only one is still living,” Gloria said. “One was killed in a car accident at Countryside and another was killed at Knolls.” Gloria also has six grandchildren.

Occupation:  “I was busy raising my three boys. But I did work at Allen Organ for five years.”

Fire Company:  Gloria has been volunteering with the Macungie Fire Company Ladies Auxiliary for 52 years.  “I don’t remember how I got started. I think I came with a friend of mine,” she said.

Describe your job with the ladies auxiliary and how you got involved: “I help with the preparation and the making of the hoagies when we sell them. I have also been the chaplain of the group for a long, long time.  As chaplain I read a devotion and lead the women in the Lord’s Prayer at each meeting.”

Do you have family members involved with the fire department?  “My husband was a member of the Macungie Fire Company. He was a musician and played the electronic bass for different events they held. He also played Santa Claus for various events, including at the fire company. 

“My son is a member of the fire company now, but he doesn’t fight any fires.  He is a contributing member, not an active member.”

What would you tell people interested in joining the ladies auxiliary?  “We need members, especially younger ones, to keep helping the firemen.  Membership has dropped in the last few years. 

“Years ago the women joined because it was expected. It was a way for women to help the fire department, since they weren’t permitted to fight the fires at that time.

“It’s a night out to get together with friends. We have a good time here with each other.”

Do you know a volunteer firefighter who Patch should profile? Contact mariella.savidge@patch.com