Michael R. Bownaze

HFD Rookie Class 1979
"Best Trained Class of the Harrisburg Fire Department"

Michael was a great friend and neighbor. He will be missed.

Chief Bownaze was one of the greats. He was a friend of my father's and became a friend of mine. He was a mentor and a leader and I enjoyed his stories over the years I knew him. Like Nelson has said about his class I was privileged to be in the first career fire academy at HACC with Chief Bownaze as the overseer from the dept. He was not afraid to tell the officials from the college when something did not add up and many times he came to the training grounds to stick up for us. He was the...

Condolences to Donna whom Mike referred to as Bownaze, his daughters Toni and Terri and the remainder of his family. Mike was a very knowledgeable man when it came to fighting the red devil and was a good instructor as well. Chief Bownaze was assigned as the training officer of the rookie class of 1979 and I am proud to have been a member of that class which he referred to as "the best trained class of the HFD." Rest easy Chief.

Michael drove van for us for several years. I really thought a lot of him. He made me one of his famous bird houses that I really liked. He’s going to be missed by many. Thank you for all the service you did and the many stories you told me about your time with the Fire Company.

Prayers to the Bownaze family. Rest in peace my friend, we fought lots of fire during the "War Years". Best lifeguard at "Pismo Beach"

Chief, thank you for your support when I was a volunteer with Engine 13 in the city. Your enthusiasm and drive were examples to live up to. Continue to chase the red Devil. Rest in Peace my friend.

Dear Bownaze family. May God grant you peace and understanding. My deepest sympathies. Gloria Harner.

Rest In Peace Mike!! You were always such a kind soul and we were fortunate to have known you. Go Easy until we meet on the other side.

Bobbi Jo & Alan Bluestone