of the Year honored John Duggan has been chosen as Hilton's "Citizen of the Year." Each year people nominate worthy individuals for the honor, and according to Hilton Mayor Bill Carter, "John has certainly earned and deserves this recognition." The announcement came by surprise to Duggan at a recent village board meeting, attended by many of his family and friends. Very humbled and teary-eyed, Duggan seemed lost for words: "I was only doing what I thought needed to be done," he said. Born and raised in the Hilton-Parma area, Duggan has contributed to his community in many ways for the past four decades, especially as a Rotarian and in the volunteer fire service. Duggan's background of service is exemplary. As an Army reservist he served his country for eight years. He was Committee Chairman of Scout Pack 125 for several years and is a charter member of the Hilton-Parma Community Council. He also served as Chairman of St. Leo's Church Festival for two years and was president of Rochester's Chamber of Commerce Salesman Club from 1972-1973. In 1967, Duggan joined the Hilton Rotary Club where he served as president in 1975 and 1976. As a Rotarian, John was instrumental in activities such as Easter egg hunts and toy donations for children at Strong Memorial Hospital. He also provided support for children with Spina Bifida by loaning his motor home for vacation trips as far away as Boston and overseeing the building of a handicapped chair for a local boy. Rotary International honored Duggan with their highest recognition, the Paul Harris Fellow. Duggan's dedication to fire service began with the North Greece Fire Department. After moving to Hilton, he was elected to the Parma Fire District as a Fire Commissioner in 1983. Subsequently, after consolidation of the district in 1986, John was continuously reelected to the position and served for over 20 years. During this time, he was instrumental as a team player to provide the best affordable emergency service to the Hilton-Parma Fire District and by helping with the modernization of the fire hall, equipment and grounds. In presenting Duggan with a plaque to honor the event, Mayor Carter said, "John's commitment, determination and willingness to serve the people is what makes Hilton the 'small village with a big heart' and a better place to live." John and wife, Anne, have been married for 41 years. They have two children, Patrick and Nancy. |
