Tracy Segelken, 52, Police Dispatcher

Tracy Ann Segelken, a public safety dispatcher and one of the first female firefighters in the Springs Fire Department, died of heart failure on Nov. 12 at Southampton Hospital. She was 52. 

After working at Apple Bank for many years, Ms. Segelken joined the East Hampton Town Police Department as a dispatcher in 2003. Police Chief Michael Sarlo said, “She was popular within our ranks, as a supportive and caring friend who always put others before herself. She leaves a big void in our radio room.” 

Born on Aug. 13, 1964, in Bayview Hospital in Mastic Beach, Ms. Segelken was the daughter of William Segelken and the former Patricia Goss. Her father was a town police officer who retired as captain in 1996. She grew up in Springs, graduating from the Springs School in 1978 and East Hampton High School in 1982. 

She lived in Springs and joined the Springs Fire Department 29 years ago. Though not the first, she was one of the early female firefighters in the department. She was a member of Company #3 and volunteered on the house and basement committees. She also served as the department’s treasurer and the treasurer of the benevolent association at one point.

Ms. Segelken is survived by her father, who lives in Georgetown, S.C., and her brother, William Segelken Jr. of East Hampton. She was very close to her nieces, Aspen and Reilly Segelken, and her nephew, Morgan Segelken, as well as her godson, Garrett Severance, all of whom survive. 

Ms. Segelken was creamated. Services were held last week at the Yardley and Pino Funeral Home in East Hampton. 

Memorial donations have been suggested to the Springs Fire Department, 179 Fort Pond Boulevard, East Hampton 11937.