In Loving Memory of Jeff Harloff: A Lifelong Servant, Steadfast Leader, and Beloved Mentor
It is with heavy hearts and deep sorrow that we share the news of the passing of Jeff Harloff, former Emergency Management Coordinator for Ontario County, whose life was dedicated to public service, community safety, and the well-being of others. Jeff passed away after a life spent in tireless dedication to those around him—leading with purpose, mentoring with heart, and serving with humility. His loss is a tremendous one for our community, and his absence will be profoundly felt by all who had the honor to know him.
Jeff retired from his official role in 2023 after a distinguished and impactful career, but retirement never slowed him down. He continued to serve Ontario County with the same unwavering commitment, taking on the role of Car 3, a Deputy Coordinator, and remaining a vital force behind the scenes. Jeff’s name was synonymous with reliability. He was always there—rain or shine, day or night—whenever help was needed, no questions asked.
For those of us fortunate enough to work alongside him, Jeff was much more than a colleague; he was a mentor, a guide, and a friend. His leadership wasn’t loud or flashy—it was steady, grounded, and rooted in experience and compassion. Jeff led by example, always placing the needs of the community above his own. He was known for his clear thinking in times of crisis, his calm demeanor under pressure, and his ability to rally people together with a common purpose.
But even beyond his impressive resume, certifications, and emergency response accolades, what set Jeff apart was his heart. He genuinely cared. Whether he was helping coordinate storm responses, supporting fire departments, or mentoring the next generation of emergency responders, he did it all with an unmatched sense of duty and integrity. He didn’t just serve—he embodied service.
Jeff also leaves behind a rich legacy of mentorship. He took time to train, encourage, and uplift others in the field, ensuring that the knowledge he had earned through years of experience would benefit the future. He believed deeply in community, in preparedness, and in empowering others to lead with the same humility and dedication that defined his own career. Many of today’s emergency management professionals trace their roots and confidence back to Jeff’s wisdom and encouragement.
To his beloved wife, Cheryl, and the rest of his family—we send our deepest and most heartfelt condolences. There are no words sufficient to express the gratitude we feel for the years you shared Jeff with us. His presence strengthened the very fabric of Ontario County. Please know that the entire emergency services community and beyond stands beside you in grief and in honor of the incredible man we have lost.
As we remember Jeff Harloff, we also recommit ourselves to the values he lived by: selflessness, service, courage, and compassion. His legacy will not fade. It will live on in every emergency plan written with care, every responder who leads with integrity, and every life that is made safer because of the systems and standards Jeff helped build.
Thank you, Jeff, for a life lived with purpose. Thank you for being our teacher, our leader, our protector, and our friend.
Rest in peace, Car 3. Your watch is over, but your legacy will guide us always.