Photo by Kyle Green | The Roanoke Times

Sidney Robertson (pictured here in October, 2008 at Roanoke Emergency Medical Services) is credited with starting the first volunteer rescue squad. For over 60 years, he volunteered with Roanoke Emergency Medical Services.

Roanoke lost one of its most stalwart and long-standing volunteers this week with the passing of Sidney Robertson, 90, who died Wednesday of complications from a brain tumor.

Robertson was still in his teens when he helped found the Williamson Road Life Saving Crew in 1938. That volunteer organization later merged with the Roanoke Life Saving Crew to become Roanoke Emergency Medical Services, but Robertson was part of it for more than 70 years. He remained its president until his death.

"That was his baby," his wife, Rita, said Thursday. "He was very dedicated to what he believed in, and he loved helping other people.

"He was a very upbeat person and had more energy than most people have."

Mayor David Bowers last year declared Sept. 8 as Sidney F. Robertson Day, using Robertson's birthday to recognize his work and honor his service.

Robertson also spent much of his life working in another field -- the railroad. He began working as a messenger for the Norfolk and Western Railway during the 1930s and remained there for more than 50 years, finally retiring as assistant to the president. That left him more time to indulge his passion.

"Since Sidney retired, he has spent an immeasurable amount of time dealing with the rescue squad, fundraising, problem-solving," said REMS Vice President Ken Harper, who will serve as president until elections are held. "He worked strongly to merge the paid and volunteer services together."

Roanoke Fire-EMS Chief David Hoback said Robertson continued working as long as he could, even while undergoing chemotherapy.

"For him to stay that committed for that many years, it's just very unusual in today's society," Hoback said. "He's probably the longest volunteer that I'm aware of."