December 26, 2025
It is with deep sadness and profound gratitude that the Heber-Overgaard Community Resource Network (HOCRN) shares the passing of our co-founder, Fire Chief William D. McCluskey, on December 26, 2025. Our community knew him as Chief—the Fire Chief—but he was so much more. He was a father, a firefighter, a mentor, a problem-solver, and a friend. Above all, he was a man who took tremendous pride in the Heber-Overgaard community and believed deeply in taking care of one another.
Chief’s strong sense of community led him to co-found HOCRN alongside long-time local realtor June “Sassy” Call. HOCRN was officially established on February 22, 2022, as a 100% volunteer-powered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to serving the needs of the Heber- Overgaard community.
Chief repeatedly witnessed a troubling pattern—some families in need were falling through the cracks, while others were receiving duplicated support from multiple sources. For those who knew him, it was no surprise that he did not step away from the problem. He set out to fix it. That determination sparked a pivotal meeting organized by Chief and June Call, bringing together more than 50 community leaders to talk openly and find solutions. From that gathering, HOCRN was formed, establishing a board and enlisting volunteers to better
coordinate resources and ensure help reached those who truly needed it.
From day one, HOCRN has worked hand-in-hand with local Fire and Sheriff Departments. The creation of a 24-hour help line allowed HOCRN to stay directly connected to community needs. Throughout HOCRN’s growth, Chief remained a steady presence—guiding, encouraging, and ensuring the organization stayed true to its mission.
Today, HOCRN provides free van shuttle rides for our community, coordinates the Senior Angel Program and Christmas Adopt-A-Family Program through generous community support, and continues to expand services to meet evolving needs.
Chief was also instrumental in bringing MASA (helicopter insurance) coverage to our community by partnering with the Rim Country Senior Center—making this vital additional insurance available to local residents.
In honor of his legacy and service, the Chief William D. McCluskey Scholarship is awarded annually to a Mogollon High School graduate or qualifying candidate pursuing a degree in fire science or a related field.
When you look around our community and see HOCRN projects in action—the van, Community Resource Day, the GROWTogether HOCRN Community Garden, and the RaiseTheFlag250 project, which will proudly fly a 40’ x 80’ American flag atop a 155’ flagpole on July 4, 2026—remember that it all began with the vision of Fire Chief William D. McCluskey. His goal was simple: to make sure no one in our community was left without help. That vision has become so much more.
Chief’s legacy lives on in every life touched, every hand extended, and every neighbor helped.
