UPDATE: The community of Johnstown, NY, is mourning the loss of beloved local leader Harold (Hal) Warren, who passed away peacefully at the age of 87 on November 29, 2025, at Nathan Littauer Hospital. His death marks the end of an era for many who knew him as a dedicated public servant and cherished family member.
Warren, born on July 9, 1938, in Camden, NJ, spent his life making significant contributions to his community. He served eight years in the Army National Guard and had a distinguished career as a Computer Supervisor at Bell Telephone Laboratories in Holmdel, NJ, and as a Manager at GTE Data Services in Johnstown, NY. Most notably, he served for 18 years as a firefighter for the City of Johnstown, where he was instrumental in founding the Johnstown Area Volunteer Ambulance Corp (JAVAC) in 1971.
Warren’s passion for music and theater enriched the lives of many in the community. He actively participated in the Colonial Little Theater, The Galway Players, and various high school theater productions. His commitment to the arts extended to volunteering as a percussion instructor at the Oppenheim Ephratah School, where he inspired countless students.
His family, including his loving wife of 66 years, Dawn Warren, and his children Leslie Garber, Heather Hladik, and Lindsay Warren, are mourning his loss. Warren is also survived by numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who cherished their time with him. The family expressed deep 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 lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Brennan Humane Society or the Fulton County Regional SPCA, reflecting Warren’s lifelong commitment to helping others.
A celebration of Warren’s life is being planned for Spring 2026 to honor his remarkable legacy and the many lives he touched. There will be no formal services, per the family’s wishes.
As tributes pour in from friends, family, and community members, Hal Warren’s impact on Johnstown will be remembered for generations to come. His dedication to public service, love for the arts, and devotion to his family have left an indelible mark on the community.
