Memorial

Today we honor John Brighenti with the Strawberry Pump Volunteer Fire Company whose LODD was 5/28/1984. There is no profile or picture for this firefighter if you have this information please contact us and the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation

Today we honor Leroy Harris with the Po Mar Po-Mar-Lin Fire Company whose LODD was 5/25/1982. There is no profile or picture for this firefighter if you have this information please contact us and the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation

Today we honor Harry Henz with the Philadelphia Fire Department whose LODD was 5/22/1986. We do not have a profile or a picture of this firefighter if you have this information please contact us and the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation

Today we honor James Harnley with the Eden Fire Department whose LODD was 5/19/1989. There is no profile or picture for this firefighter if you have this information please contact us and the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation

Today we honor William Hallgren with the Pittsburgh Bureau of Fire whose LODD was 5/18/1952. We do not have a profile or a picture for this firefighter if you have this information please contact us and the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation

Today we honor Thomas Bianconi with the Cresson Volunteer Fire Department whose LODD was 5/17/1990. Thomas N. Bianconi was riding in a tanker en route to a vehicle accident when the vehicle lost control and flipped over multiple times and landed in the Clearfield Creek. Neither were wearing seatbelts at the time of the incident and were ejected from the tanker‚ sustaining fatal traumatic injuries. We do not have a picture of this firefighter. If you have this information contact us and the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation.

Today we honor Robert Adams with the Cresson Volunteer Fire Department whose LODD was 5/17/1990. Robert Adams was operating a tanker en route to a vehicle accident when the vehicle lost control and flipped over multiple times and landed in the Clearfield Creek. He was not wearing a seatbelt at the time of the incident and was ejected from the tanker‚ sustaining fatal traumatic injuries. We do not have a picture of this firefighter if you have this information please contact us and the

Today we honor Robert Kennedy with the Philadelphia Fire Department whose LODD was 5/17/1961. This firefighter does not have a picture or a profile. If you have this information please contact us and the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation

Today we Honor Bernard McSloy with the Philadelphia Fire Department whose LODD was 5/16/1976. Firefighter Bernard McSloy of the Philadelphia Fire Department, was killed on May 16, 1976, while fighting a basement fire at Barson’s Deli at Bustleton and Castor Avenues, in which the floor collapsed. Firefighter Richard Iannacone, Firefighter David Stewart and Firefighter Aloysius Welsh were also killed. This firefighter line of duty fatality occurred before the National Fallen Firefighters Memorial was built in Emmitsburg, Maryland. While this firefighter has not been officially honored at the Memorial site, there are plans to do so when resources are available.

Today we honor Richard Iannacone with the Philadelphia Fire Department whose LODD was 5/16/1976. Firefighter Richard Iannacone of the Philadelphia Fire Department, was killed on May 16, 1976, while fighting a basement fire at Barson’s Deli at Bustleton and Castor Avenues in which the floor collapsed. Firefighter Bernard McSloy, Firefighter David Stewart and Firefighter Aloysius Welsh were also killed. This firefighter line of duty fatality occurred before the National Fallen Firefighters Memorial was built in Emmitsburg, Maryland. While this firefighter has not been officially honored at the Memorial site, there are plans to do so when resources are available.

Today we honor David Stewart Jr. with the Philadelphia Fire Department whose LODD was 5/16/1976. Firefighter David Stewart of the Philadelphia Fire Department, was killed on May 16, 1976, while fighting a basement fire at Barson’s Deli at Bustleton and Castor Avenues in which the floor collapsed. Firefighter Bernard McSloy, Firefighter Richard Iannacone and Firefighter Aloysius Welsh were also killed. This firefighter line of duty fatality occurred before the National Fallen Firefighters Memorial was built in Emmitsburg, Maryland. While this firefighter has not been officially honored at the Memorial site, there are plans to do so when resources are available.

Today we honor William Franck with the Willow St. Fire Co. whose LODD was 5/12/2019. Firefighter Franck became ill while operating at the scene of a motor vehicle accident on the afternoon of May 12, 2019. Firefighter Franck was attended to by fellow firefighters from the Willow Street Fire Company before being transported to the hospital by Lancaster EMS. Firefighter Franck’s life was dedicated to helping others. He joined the Willow Street Fire Company in 1985 and served in many administrative positions throughout his years there. Norm also served as an emergency medical technician with the Willow Street Fire Company Ambulance for several years. Firefighter Franck is survived by his loving spouse, Marian.  After retiring, Norm and Marian moved to St. Michaels, Maryland, in 1999. Firefighter Franck joined the Saint Michaels Fire Department, where he played a vital role in the department for several years. He spearheaded several fundraising projects for the department throughout his years of service with the St. Michaels Fire Department. Norm served over 35 years with both departments.

Today we honor Aloysius Welsh with the Philadelphia Fire Department whose LODD was 5/16/1976. Firefighter Aloysius Welsh of the Philadelphia Fire Department, was killed on May 16, 1976, while fighting a basement fire at Barson’s Deli at Bustleton and Castor Avenues in which the floor collapsed. Firefighter Bernard McSloy, Firefighter David Stewart and Firefighter Richard Iannacone were also killed. This firefighter line of duty fatality occurred before the National Fallen Firefighters Memorial was built in Emmitsburg, Maryland. While this firefighter has not been officially honored at the Memorial site, there are plans to do so when resources are available.

Today we honor John Polimine with the Scalp Level-Paint Fire "616" whose LODD was 5/1/2010. John Polimine‚ 51‚ of Windber‚ Pennsylvania suffered a fatal heart attack during a training exercise at the Cambria County Fire School on May 1‚ 2010. He was born April 2‚ 1959‚ in Brooklyn‚ New York‚ to the late Francis and Antoinette L. (Braga) Polimine. John moved to Pennsylvania about two years before his death from New York City‚ where he was an auxiliary police officer and taxi driver. He joined the Scalp Level-Paint Volunteer Fire Company in November 2008. He was the first member of his company to die during a training or fire call. John was survived by five children‚ Shawn‚ Melissa‚ Antoinette‚ Christina and John Jr.; his brothers and sisters; and five grandchildren.  John was well liked by his fellow firefighters.

Today we honor William Church with the Columbus Volunteer Fire Department whose LODD was 5/3/2007.  We do not have a profile or a picture of this firefighter. If you can help us with this information please contact us and the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation

Today we honor Edward Friel with the Philadelphia Fire Department whose LODD was 5/3/1986.  We do not have a profile or a picture for this firefighter if you have this information please contact us and the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation

Today we honor Charles Danylo with the Aliquippa Fire Department whose LODD was 5/3/1988.  There is no profile or picture for this firefighter if you have this information please contact us and the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation See less

Today we honor Eric Casiano with the Philadelphia Fire Department whose LODD was 5/3/1999.  Eric Noel Casiano‚ 41‚ a career member of the Philadelphia Fire Department‚ died on May 3‚ 1999‚ from injuries sustained when he fell through a floor at a residential fire. A 7-year veteran of the department‚ he had received a citation for bravery. He served in the Army prior to joining the fire department.

Today we honor Stephen Stapleton with the Schuylkill Hydraulians whose LODD was 5/5/1832. Schuylkill County Volunteer Firefighters Association.  We do not have a picture or a profile for this firefighter if you have this information please let us and the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation know.

Today we honor Derrick Nester with the Wyomissing Fire Department whose LODD was 5/6/2024.  Derrick L. Nester was born on July 6, 1980, to Donald and Sharon Nester, a tiny miracle born three months premature. Derrick enjoyed spending time on his (Schmale) grandparents’ farm growing up and shared a love for cars with his brother, Jace. He followed in his father’s footsteps of being a volunteer firefighter. Sadly, his father also died in the line of duty in 2001. Derrick grew up in the Amity Fire Company (AFC) in Douglassville, Pennsylvania, and became a junior firefighter in 1994. He rose through the ranks as assistant engineer, chief engineer, captain, and assistant chief, and was a life member. He graduated from Universal Technical Institute as a diesel mechanic. Derrick started as a career firefighter with the Wyomissing Fire Department (WFD) in 2007. He was promoted to captain in 2014 and chaired the apparatus committee throughout his tenure at WFD. Derrick’s list of firefighting classes is extensive and impressive. He had a passion for advancing his knowledge and sharing that knowledge to help others advance as well. He received awards and recognition throughout his career. Derrick assisted in designing multiple fire apparatus for AFC and WFD, spending countless hours to be sure they were perfect. He was posthumously promoted to deputy chief of the Wyomissing Fire Department. Derrick’s friends and colleagues were an integral part of his life. He was described by many as a great friend, mentor, leader, listener, and confidant. He was professional, hardworking, dedicated, honest, selfless, kindhearted, and respectful. Derrick went out of his way to help anyone and was a well-respected community member and leader in the fire service. His cool, calm, and professional demeanor is missed every shift at the Wyomissing Fire Department. The outpouring of stories and memories reinforces how much he meant to so many. His infectious smile and laugh and willingness to lead “shenanigans” with a PBR in hand will always be remembered and missed. Above all, Derrick was most proud of being a father. He loved being a girl dad to Kayla and was sure to tell everyone how perfect she was to him and all about her academic and sports achievements. They shared a special bond, and he was looking forward to teaching her how to drive, but not his beloved Dodge truck! She is forever grateful for every day they had together and cherishes their memories. His sudden passing left an emptiness that can never be filled, but there is comfort in knowing that he lives on in his beautiful “baby girl.”

Today we honor David Clark with the Good Will Hose Company whose LODD was 5/6/1946.  We do not have a profile or a picture of this firefighter if you have this information please contact us and the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation

Today we honor Bernard Goodyear with the Citizen Engine Company #3 whose LODD was 5/7/1927.  This firefighter does not have a picture or a profile. If you have this information let us and the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation know. See less

Today we honor Wilbur Sadler with the Camp Hill Fire Department whose LODD was 5/7/1927.  We do not have a profile or picture for this firefighter. If you have this information please let us and the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation know. See less

Today we honor David Struble with the Philadelphia Fire Department whose LODD was 5/8/1943.  This firefighter does not have a profile or a picture if you have this information please let us and the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation know. See less

Today we honor William Barbush with the Harrisburg Bureau of Fire Station #2- Kings Of The Hill whose LODD was 5/10/1968.  We do not have a profile or picture for this firefighter, if you have this information please let us and the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation know. See less

Today we honor Daniel Stack with the Highland Volunteer Fire Department. whose LODD was 5/10/2024.  Daniel Edward Stack was a devoted husband, loving father, devout Catholic, dedicated firefighter, and a pillar of his community. Born in McCandless Township, Pennsylvania, he grew up in the North Allegheny school system, graduating in 1992. From a young age, he had a passion for service, sports, and family—values that defined his life. A standout varsity hockey player, he was an avid sports fan, golfer, and diehard Steelers supporter. His love for Jimmy Buffett was unmatched. He would have proudly worn Hawaiian shirt-themed turnout gear if possible. Daniel met his soulmate, Suzanne, in high school, and their love story spanned decades, culminating in their marriage on December 31, 1999. Together, they built a life centered around faith and family, raising their three children, Riley, Kelby, and Laney—his “Irish Princess.” As a father, he never missed a game or moment to support his kids. Service was at Daniel’s core. He joined the Ingomar Volunteer Fire Department in 1989, later serving as assistant chief, and continued at the Highland Volunteer Fire Department as an interior firefighter, becoming a life member in both. He was also a fire instructor at the Allegheny County Fire Academy and a state-certified fire instructor. In 1999, he became fire marshal and emergency management coordinator for the Town of McCandless, serving for 27 years. In 2021, he became director of safety and security for North Allegheny School District, uniting first responders and faculty through emergency response plans. Outside of work, Daniel loved cooking, hunting with his cherished family heirloom shotgun, and organizing the “Balls of Fire” Golf Outing, which he started in 1999. He lived by faith, putting others before himself and inspiring those around him. On May 8, 2024, Daniel and his son Riley responded to a mutual aid call for a structure fire. Two days later, Daniel passed away unexpectedly. Despite heroic resuscitation efforts by Riley and fellow first responders, his loss left a grieving community but also an enduring legacy of service, love, and commitment. Even in death, he united those around him, bringing together the first responder family he cherished. To those who knew him, Daniel was a protector, leader, and friend. His legacy is honored daily by his family, friends, and the community he served. To navigate life’s challenges and honor his memory, loved ones embrace the reminder “W.W.D.D. – What Would Dan/Dad Do?”

Today we honor Eli Hoffman with the Allison H & L No. 2 whose LODD was 5/13/1908.  We do not have a profile or a picture for this firefighter if you have this information please let us and the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation know.

Today we honor Samuel Miller with the Citizen Engine Co. #3 whose LODD was 1859.  There is not a profile or a picture of this firefighter if you have this information please let us and the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation know.

Today we honor Mark Wunch with the Lake Shore Volunteer Fire Department whose LODD was 5/13/1990.  We do not have a profile or picture of this firefighter if you have this information please get it to us and the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation

Today we honor John Edwards with the Hunlock Creek Volunteer Fire Company whose LODD was 5/14/1985.  This firefighter does not have a profile or a picture if you have this information please let us and the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation know.

Today we honor John Polimine with the Scalp Level-Paint Fire "616" whose LODD was 5/1/2010. John Polimine‚ 51‚ of Windber‚ Pennsylvania suffered a fatal heart attack during a training exercise at the Cambria County Fire School on May 1‚ 2010. He was born April 2‚ 1959‚ in Brooklyn‚ New York‚ to the late Francis and Antoinette L. (Braga) Polimine. John moved to Pennsylvania about two years before his death from New York City‚ where he was an auxiliary police officer and taxi driver. He joined the Scalp Level-Paint Volunteer Fire Company in November 2008. He was the first member of his company to die during a training or fire call. John was survived by five children‚ Shawn‚ Melissa‚ Antoinette‚ Christina and John Jr.; his brothers and sisters; and five grandchildren. John was well liked by his fellow firefighters.

Today we honor John Nestorick with the Wilkesbarre City Fire Department whose LODD was 5/1/1975. We do not have a picture or a profile for this firefighter if you have this information please contact us and the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation

Today we honor Thomas Lane with the Hustontown Area Vol. Fire Co. whose LODD was 5/1/1990. There is not a profile for this firefighter if you can help us with this information please contact us and the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation.

Today we honor Richard Hershey with the Hustontown Area Vol. Fire Co. whose LODD was 5/1/1990. There is no profile for this firefighter if you have this information please let us and the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation know

Today we honor James Chesnut with the Hustontown Area Vol. Fire Co. whose LODD was 5/1/1990. Firefighter Chesnut and two others died inside a well after being exposed to carbon monoxide from the exhaust of a portable gasoline engine-powered pump. The incident occurred after four firefighters responded to a request to remove the remains of a dead animal from a 33-foot deep water well. The Firefighters decided first to pump the water out of the well (12 feet of water). One firefighter climbed down into the well on a aluminum ladder and built a wooden platform at the 15 foot level. A second firefighter climbed down into the well to help position a 9-horsepower gasoline engine powered pump being lowered to the platform. The two firefighters started the engine‚ but were unable to prime the pump. Within a few minutes‚ the first firefighter became dizzy and exited the well. The second firefighter remained in the well and became unconscious. In the rescue attempt‚ the first firefighter climbed back down into the well‚ turned the engine off‚ and then collapsed unconscious over the engine. By this time‚ the engine had run approximately 8 or 9 minutes. Within minutes‚ several other volunteer firefighters entered the well in rescue attempts. Only two of the rescuing firefighters wore supplied-air respirators (SCBA). The first firefighter was rescued and revived. The second firefighter and two other firefighters attempting rescue died.

Today we honor Kenneth Cara with the Kline Township Volunteer Fire Department whose LODD was 5/1/1988. While waiting for a SCUBA rescue team to arrive from out of town Kenneth Cara‚ a firefighter with the Kline Township Fire Department‚ spent his time comforting a worried mother who’s son had gone missing. He waited with her for a while and that’s when he realized his area needed a SCUBA rescue team. He helped form a diving team in lower Luzerne County in northeast Pennsylvania. On May 1‚ 1988 he lost his life while training with the team. Cara was born and raised in Kelayres‚ Pennsylvania where he became a volunteer firefighter for the Kline Township Fire Department at 16. After graduating from the Hazleton High School in 1976 where he played football and broke records on the track team he went on to college to study law with the dream of becoming a police officer. Cara never left his home in Kelayres. He eventually became a police officer for the neighboring borough of McAdoo and then earned the title of captain with the Kline Township Police Department. He remained a firefighter and when he died he was the President of the Kline Township Fire Department. In his free time Cara helped coach a local youth football team and was an active member of the Immaculate Conception Roman Catholic Church in Kelayres. Cara was known for helping keep local young people out of trouble by encouraging them to join the fire department. He also made a difference as a police officer. After his death a few of the people he had arrested showed up at his wake‚ some saying that they stayed out of trouble because they didn’t want to let Cara down. Born on August 28‚ 1957 Cara was 30 years old when he died leaving behind his mother‚ 3 brothers and a wife and son.

Today we honor Fred Buchanan Jr. with the Altoona Fire Department whose LODD was 5/1/1974. Firefighter Buchanan died after suffering a heart attack while responding to a false alarm. We do not have a picture of this firefighter if you have this information please contact us and the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation

Today we honor Dominic Altavilla with the Wilkes-Barre City Fire Department Whose LODD was 5/1/1978. We do not have a picture or a profile for this firefighter if you have this information please let us and the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation know.

Today we honor Timothy Peters with the Pine Grove Hose Hook and Ladder #1d whose LODD 4/30/2015. Timothy Todd Peters was born October 5, 1968, to the late Warren D. Peters Sr. and the late Dawn Ann Stewart. The youngest of three children, he was raised in Pine Grove, Pennsylvania, a small, close-knit community where he lived his entire life. He had a passion for helping others, and his becoming a volunteer firefighter was no surprise to his family and friends. From helping during one of the two floods that hit Pine Grove, where he served the community both as the EMA director for Pine Grove Borough and a volunteer firefighter, to helping coach one of the many sports that his children played, Tim was always there to lend a hand, an ear, or words of encouragement. He graduated from Pine Grove Area High School in 1986 and participated in football and basketball. In 1992, he joined Pine Grove H.H. & L. #1 Fire Company and was an active member for 23 years. Throughout his years he was president of the company and assisted with numerous committees. Volunteering with the fire company wasn’t enough for Tim to give back to the community, so he decided to run for borough council and was elected. While serving his term, he served as president of Pine Grove Borough as well. With the fire company is his blood, he wanted to pursue a career that would help the community in other ways as well. He became an EMR, working for Tower Porter Fire Company in Tower City and the Goodwill Fire Company in Minersville. As if that wasn’t enough, Tim was involved in his children’s sports. He coached soccer, where he was also a past president of the PGAYSA; coached football and served as general manager; and coached baseball. He was also the president of the high school track and field booster, even though he had no child old enough to participate. Timothy is survived by his wife, Alexandra; his children, Kayla, Zachary, and Taryn; sister, Valerie Johnson (Gary); his Pine Grove H.H. & L. #1 Fire Company brothers and sisters; and a host of family and friends. His dedication and love of helping others is a special bond he shared with this fellow firefighter and EMS family, which will continue to live on through their dedication in continuing down the same path

Today we honor John Tuttle with the Gallatin-Sunnyside Volunteer Fire Company whose LODD was 4/29/1986. We do not have a profile or a picture for this firefighter, if you have this information please contact us and the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation.

Today we honor MIchael Godzak with the Rostraver Township Volunteer Fire Company #1 whose LODD was 4/29/2018. Michael Godzak Jr., 59, of Webster, Pennsylvania, died suddenly on Sunday, April 29, 2018. When returning from a fire call as the engine driver, Michael would have normally backed the truck into the station. This day was different. Instead, he stopped on the street in front of the station and exited the vehicle. He became ill and collapsed to the ground. His firefighter brothers and sisters came to his aid, doing all that they could until paramedics arrived. He was transported to Monongahela Valley Hospital, where he was pronounced dead. Michael joined the Rostraver Township Volunteer Fire Department No.1 in 1970 as a junior member at age 12. He became a regular member of the department in 1976 at age 18. Michael was dedicated to the fire department. During his tenure he held every line office within the department, including nine years as chief. At the time of his death, he was first captain. Michael was active in the Southwestern Pennsylvania Chiefs Association, Westmoreland County Chiefs and Assistant Chiefs Association, and was an instructor at the California University of Pennsylvania Fire School. Michael graduated from Belle Vernon Area High School in 1976. He worked at Webster Auto Parts and Fuel Company, eventually buying the business and running it for ten years. He was a purchasing manager at Alumisourse Corp. in Monessen, Pennsylvania. People often called him “the Mayor of Webster” because of his love for his hometown. Michael was honest, intelligent, kind, and had a heart of gold. He loved music and was passionate about playing his trombone. Michael was the son of the late Michael and Elma (McFeely) Godzak Sr. He is survived by his sister, Margaret (James) Winchester, of California. He will be dearly missed by family and friends.

Today we honor Edward "Chip" Chidester with the Harford Fire Department whose LODD was 4/27/2025. Edward R. “Chip” Chidester was called home to be with the Lord on Sunday, April 27, 2025, after complications from an injury sustained on March 11, 2025, while courageously fighting a wildland fire. He was 55 years old. Born on May 26, 1969, Chip was the beloved son of Barbara (Deluca) and the late Eddie Chidester. From a young age, Chip was a fixture in the Harford community. His roots ran deep, and his devotion to the people around him shaped a life dedicated to service, kindness, and faith. Chip was a proud 40-year member of the Harford Volunteer Fire Company, joining as soon as he was old enough and serving faithfully for the rest of his life. To his brothers and sisters in the fire service, Chip was more than a colleague—he was a mentor, a friend, and a source of calm strength in the most difficult moments. Whether battling a blaze or lending a hand after a storm, Chip was always among the first to arrive and the last to leave. His courage, compassion, and unwavering commitment to others made him a true example of selflessness and service. Those who knew Chip will remember him as a man among men—a steady presence whose familiar smile could bring comfort and reassurance to anyone he met. He was the person you wanted by your side when times were hard and the one whose laughter could light up any room. Chip never turned his back on those in need. Often, he put aside his own needs and comfort to provide for others, guided by an unshakable belief that helping people was both his calling and his joy. Chip’s love for his family and community never wavered. He stood strong as a pillar—one that withstood the test of time and weathered every storm that came his way. His compassion, generosity, and faith left an indelible mark on all who were fortunate enough to know him. He was the embodiment of kindness, integrity, and humility. Chip never knew a stranger in this world—only friends he hadn’t met yet. In addition to his mother, Barbara, Chip is survived by his devoted wife of nearly 20 years, Barb (Sturdevant) Chidester, and his loving sister, Susie. He will also be deeply missed by his extended family, countless friends, and his brothers and sisters in the fire service. Through them, Chip’s legacy of love, compassion, and unwavering dedication to others will continue to shine brightly. Chip’s life was one of purpose, faith, and service. Though his passing leaves a heartache that cannot be measured, his spirit will live on in the hearts of all who loved him.

Today we honor Donald Semyon with the Avoca Hose Company #1 whose LODD was 4/27/1983. We do not have a profile or picture for this firefighter. If you have this information please contact us and the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation

Today we honor Herbert Pinkowicz with the Aston Twp. Fire Department whose LODD was 4/27/1986. Herbert Pinkowicz was born in Chester, but raised in Aston, Pennsylvania. Herb was a 1973 graduate of Sun Valley High School. He was a caring member of the Aston community. Besides his work with the Aston Beechwood Fire Company, he was also an active member of the Aston Township Lions Club, and faithful worshiper with his daughter at Mt. Hope United Methodist Church. At the time of his passing, he left behind a 3 1/2 year old daughter, Lisa Marie.

Today we honor Rodney Miller with the Loganville Fire Company whose LODD was 4/27/2013. Rodney P. Miller was born February 6, 1968, to Paul and Elaine Miller. As a child, Rodney helped on the family farm, where he learned the meaning of hard work, dedication, and quality, loving family time. In high school, Rodney played baseball for the township in which he lived, receiving numerous trophies and medals. Rodney studied in the tool and diemaker apprenticeship program, earning his Journeyman papers, and spent 15 years in this trade prior to becoming a self-employed general carpenter and mason. While he was self employed, he would explain to prospective customers that the fire company was his priority, so if there was a call he would leave the job site and return when the call was completed. Some of his customers have said that when he started a job he was their contractor, but by the time the job was completed he was their friend. Following in his older brother Gary’s footsteps, Rodney joined the Loganville Volunteer Fire Company as a junior volunteer at the age of 16. There, he found the brotherhood of firefighters that became his second home. Through his close association with strong leaders, Rodney perfected his leadership skills. After holding several positions and serving as 1st assistant fire chief, he was elected chief in 2001 by his peers. Rodney was a 29-year veteran of the volunteer fire service, a mentor and well respected within the community. He was posthumously named chief emeritus of the Loganville Volunteer Fire Company. Rodney was a humble man who never sought notoriety, which is ironic given all of the honors that have been bestowed on him prior to and since his death. Rodney had an infectious smile, laugh,deep blue eyes, a heart of gold, and was always lending a helping hand. He was a loving, caring, and devoted husband, son, brother, uncle, and friend and a leader by example. He was community and faith oriented. Rodney was an avid hunter and was surrounded by a strong, close-knit family. However, when his pager sounded, his priority and passion was to help anyone in need. Even after his passing, he continued to help others by being a Gift of Life donor. He was brave and a hero to many. Let your life speak. Rodney’s life spoke volumes, and in the end it rang out, ‟Well done good and faithful servant.”

Today we recognize Geary Von Hoffman with the Edgely Fire Company (Ten House) whose LODD was 4/26/1976. This firefighter has not been honored as of yet at the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation but will when they get the resources

Today we honor Curtis Nordsick with the @Wrightsvillle Steam Engine & Hose Co,#1 whose LODD was 4/19/2015. Wrightsville Steam Fire Engine & Hose Company No. 1 Fire Police Lieutenant Curtis “Curt” Eugene Nordsick Sr. passed away while serving in the line of his duties on the evening of Sunday, April 19, 2015. Curtis E. Nordsick Sr. was born April 28, 1943, in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania. He was the son of the late Joshua Kennedy and the late Ethel Nordsick of Lancaster. While serving his country in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War, he met his wife, Phyllis (Shoff) Nordsick, of Wrightsville. After his service in the Army, the two settled in the little town of Wrightsville, where they raised a family of six children, Deb Parker (Christopher), Curtis E. Jr., Robert “Buck” (Karen), Michelle, Shelly, and Bryan (Dory). Curt’s skills and experience in the Army landed him a career as truck driver for Colonial Metals Company, where he retired in 2007 as the company’s traffic manager. He was a dedicated family man and a tremendous grandfather to his ten grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. Curt began his volunteer fire service career in October 1967 with the Wrightsville Steam Fire Engine & Hose Company No. 1. Curt selflessly served many communities as a fire police officer for the department and actively assisted with chicken barbeques, fundraisers, and community events. In 2008, Curt was recognized for having served 40 years of continuous service with the organization. His service to the community influenced his grandson, Chad Livelsberger, to also volunteer, and Curt watched as Chad was appointed fire chief in 2012. Curt was truly a pleasure to have around and was loved by all who knew him. We all hope to pass on Curt’s legacy of dedication and selfless service

Today we honor Leroy Byers with the Liberty Fire Company #1 whose LODD was 4/17/1988. There is no profile or picture for this firefighter if you have this information please let us and the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation know.

Ivan was born February 13, 1968, in Oelwein, Iowa, to Judy (Dillon) and Kenneth Appleby. Ivan died in the line of duty doing what he loved, serving his community as a firefighter for York City Fire/Rescue Services. Like his father, a dedicated Iowa police officer, Ivan worked hard, loved helping others, and lived life in the moment. Ivan spent his formative years in Vallejo, California. As a teen, he developed a love for travel, music, and history. He learned to play guitar, wrote music, and performed in rock bands before moving with his family to New Freedom, Pennsylvania, in 1985. After graduating from Susquehanna High School in 1986, he attended York College of Pennsylvania, where he received a Bachelor of Arts in music with a concentration in classical guitar. Ivan put himself through college doing construction work and performing in the band Desperate Measures. Ivan married Tina Wagner in 1996, and their daughter, Sierra, was born in 1997. Ivan pursued a career as a firefighter and attended the Harrisburg Fire Academy. He began his professional career with York City Fire/Rescue Services in 1999. Ivan was blessed with two more daughters, Savannah in 2000 and Selina in 2002. As a result of bravery and dedication, Ivan was selected as Firefighter of the Year in 2004. He enjoyed testing himself in individual and team challenges by participating in the Firefighter Combat Challenges around the U.S. and Canada. In 2010, Ivan’s family continued to grow when he married Casey Korth and gained two stepchildren, Maya and Gavyn. During these years, he was devoted to his faith in God and especially his role as a father, husband, and stepfather. He enjoyed playing acoustic guitar in Road Trip and rocking out with his classic rock band Kodiac. Ivan traveled extensively through the U.S., Europe, Central America, Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean with his family, instilling in his children a unique world perspective. He managed nine rental properties and was in the process of renovating a beach house in Delaware. He was known and loved by many in the City of York and was easily recognized by his smile and easygoing nature. His unforgettable presence, charm, and good looks led to one of his biggest achievements, being chosen as one of the faces and voices for the national Wahl Clippers commercials that featured York City firefighters. Ivan is survived by his mother, Judy; stepfather, Floyd; wife, Casey; daughters, Sierra, Selina, and Savannah; stepchildren, Maya and Gavyn; brothers, Bill, David, and Tony; sister, Brenda; grandmother, Betty; stepbrother, James; and stepsisters, Laurie, Jeannie, and Rebekah.