Robert B. “Red” Button, age 72, of Mansfield, passed away surrounded by his loved ones on Tuesday, September 2, 2014 at the Sturdy Memorial Hospital in Attleboro. He was the beloved husband of Deborah A. (Pope) Button to whom he was wed for nearly 51 years. He was a member of the Atlantic Chapter of APCO since 1999.

Born in Melrose, Mass., on April 13, 1942, he was a son of the late Walter S. and Irene (Hilton) Button. He spent his early childhood living in Saugus, and as a teenager his family moved to Walpole where he was a graduate of Walpole High School.

From 1960-1963, Red honorably served his country as a member of the Navy and was discharged from duty with the rank ATN3.

Mr. Button served as a Chief Examiner for the Commonwealth of Massachusetts for EMT & Paramedic Certification and for the past 42 years as Director of the Mansfield Emergency Management Agency.

Red was a former Public Safety dispatcher and trainer for the Mansfield Fire and Police Departments, and had also worked for 35 years as a Production Planner at the former Bird Machine Co. in South Walpole.

Red’s passion in life was helping the community of Mansfield, which he lived in for 48 years and loved giving back to. He proudly served the town as a call firefighter for many years, rising to the rank of captain.

He was a member of the Taunton Rod and Gun Club and loved being in the presence of his adoring family, especially his grandchildren.

In addition to his beloved wife Debbie, he is survived by his devoted children: Nancy J. Jones, Robert Scott Button. He was the brother of Rita Amero and the late Walter Button and David Button. He was the cherished grandfather of Nicole Jones and Alex Rose, and is also survived by several nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers, Red’s family has requested that donations in his memory be made to the Mansfield Firefighters Local 1820, 10 Plymouth St., Mansfield, MA 02048.

Dads Last Ride 090214 from Robert Scott Button on Vimeo.

The APCO Silent Key is a special tribute and honor to those APCO Members who have passed away. It doesn’t matter what class of membership the deceased held or how long they were a member—all members count and deserve this honor. Please contact APCO International or Lin Ford (linsapco@aol.com) if you hear of a member’s passing.