Beloved Community Leader Harold Warren Passes at 87

URGENT UPDATE: Harold (Hal) Warren, a cherished community leader and founder of the Johnstown Area Volunteer Ambulance Corps (JAVAC), has passed away peacefully at the age of 87. His family confirmed his death occurred on November 29, 2025, at Nathan Littauer Hospital in New York.

Born on July 9, 1938, in Camden, NJ, Warren dedicated his life to serving others, making significant contributions as a firefighter and community volunteer. His legacy includes not only his service in the Army National Guard for 8 years but also his extensive career at Bell Telephone Laboratories and GTE Data Services.

Warren’s impact extended beyond his professional life; he was a passionate supporter of the arts, actively participating in local theater groups like Colonial Little Theater and The Galway Players. His love for music and theater was evident in his years as a percussion instructor at Oppenheim Ephratah School, where he inspired countless students.

He is survived by his devoted wife of 66 years, Dawn Warren, and their three children: Leslie Garber, Heather Hladik, and Lindsay Warren. His family continues to honor his legacy through numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who remember him as a loving patriarch.

The family expressed profound gratitude to the staff at Nathan Littauer Nursing Home and the SCU at Nathan Littauer Hospital for their compassionate care during his final days. In an official statement, they said,

“We are truly grateful for the outstanding care provided to Harold.”

In accordance with the family’s wishes, there will be no formal services. However, a Celebration of Life is scheduled for Spring 2026, allowing friends and family to gather and remember his remarkable contributions.

In lieu of flowers, the family encourages donations to the Brennan Humane Society or the Fulton County Regional SPCA, reflecting Warren’s lifelong commitment to helping others.

This news marks a significant loss for the Johnstown community as they mourn the passing of a dedicated leader and loving family man. His passion for service and the arts will be remembered and cherished by all who knew him.

Stay tuned for further updates on the upcoming celebration and community tributes to honor Harold Warren’s enduring legacy.