On January 26, 1931 Westminster Firefighter Joe Hahn died.

On January 26, 1931, Westminster Firefighter Joe Hahn died.

Honoring & Remembering Maryland Fallen Heroes. Westminster Fire Eng. & Hose Co.1~Carroll County, Maryland

On January 26, 1931, our brothers and sisters in the Westminster Fire Engine and Hose Co. No. 1 and the greater Carroll County community suffered one the two Line of Duty Deaths in the company’s history when Fireman Joseph G. Hahn died.

At approximately 10:00 a.m. on Monday January 26,1931, the Westminster Fire Engine & Hose Co.No.1 responded to the Oscar Hess residence, on the Manchester State Road near Cranberry, for a gasoline stove explosion in the kitchen.

The flames were quickly extinguished by the Westminster firemen. The kitchen was mostly destroyed from the blast, but the rest of the house was saved, having suffered only smoke damage and some broken windowpanes.

While the firemen were performing salvage and overhaul, Fireman Joseph G. Hahn suffered a heart attack and fell over. Before medical aid could be summoned, death occurred.

Fireman Joseph G. Hahn was 46 years old. Number of years served is unknown at this time.

LODD narrative paraphrased from 1931 Baltimore Evening Sun. H/T: Tim Bangerd

Westminster Fire Department member Bob Ruby, 84

In Loving memory of Westminster Fire Department member Robert “Bob” Ruby, 1936-2021 (age 84.)

It is with deep regret and sadness that the men and women of the Westminster Fire Engine & Hose Co. No. 1 announce the death of Robert Willis Ruby, 84, of Westminster, who died Friday, January 22, 2021, at the Carroll Hospice Dove House in Westminster. At the time of his death he was surrounded by members of his Westminster Fire Department extended family.

Born August 5, 1936, in Manchester, MD, he was the son of George W. Ruby, and Ray Louise (Kiler) Ruby. His Mom predeceased him on May 23, 1992. He and his cousin, Dorothy Townshend, were raised by Bob’s Aunt Helen Charlotte Townshend and Uncle LaMar E. Townshend, of Manchester.

He was one of nine children. Bob had five sisters: Kathileen Cartzendafner of Littlestown, Pa., Judy M. Utz of Taneytown, Helen V. Crumbie of Westminster, and M. Ruthy Cook and Phyllis Harvey, both of Dallastown; and three brothers: Carroll L. Ruby of Finksburg, George R. Ruby of Tennessee and Phillip W. Ruby of Essex.  

He was the loving husband of Shirley Oursler (Beck) Ruby. Shirley and Bob were married on May 10, 1964 at Wesley Methodist Church. Shirley, an artist and a homemaker, was born March 19, 1943, in Baltimore. She was the daughter of Charles Francis and Grace Oursler Beck of Arcadia. Shirley died on October 8, 2001. After her death, Bob talked about his beloved Shirley and her accomplishments every day.

Bob graduated from Manchester High School in 1954. Bob served his community as a life member of both the Hampstead and Manchester Volunteer Fire Companies. He joined Manchester in 1955 and Hampstead in 1965.

He served overseas in the Army during the Cold War from1959 to 1961 as a Military Police Officer. After his Honorable Discharge he worked as an Information Systems Engineer in the defense industry.

After the death of his wife in 2001, and his retirement as a computer systems engineer and information analyst, he moved to Westminster in 2005 where he became an active member of the Westminster Fire Engine and Hose Co, No. 1 in March 2006. At Westminster he served as treasurer, and a fire police officer. He chaired fundraising activities and was a steadfast Length of Service Award Program (LOSAP) data entry administrator for many years. He earned the Westminster Fire Department President’s award for his service in 2007.

Bob was a lifelong accomplished numismatist. In addition to his many awards and accolades for his work as numismatist, he served as the past Vice President and President of the Maryland State Numismatic Association from October 1984 – October 1987. He was also a past president of the Carroll County Coin Club, the Baltimore Coin Club, and the Maryland Token and Medal Society.

Bob loved to travel and was an avid fan of movies – especially westerns. He was well-known at the fire station for being a keen card player.

Surviving are son Greg D. Ruby of Baltimore; cousin Dorothy Townshend and sister-in-law Barbara Beck.

Funeral services are incomplete at this time. Arrangements are entrusted to Fletcher’s Funeral Home and Westminster Fire Department Chaplain Kevin Dayhoff. A private family and firefighter inurnment ceremony will take place at a later date. A separate firefighter memorial service will take place at a later date. Due to COVID-19 Coronavirus Pandemic safety precautions – there will be no visitation.

Memorial contributions may be made in his name to the Westminster Fire Engine and Hose Co. #1, 28 John Street, Westminster, MD 21157 http://westminstervfd.org/

Online condolences may be offered to the family at the Fletcher Funeral and Cremation Services, P.A. website https://www.fletcherfuneralhome.net/ 254 East Main Street, Westminster, MD 21157. 1-410-848-7575

“God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in the time of trouble.” (Psalm 46:1) “Committed to Serve, Committed to Care”

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The Westminster Fire Department announces the death of member Bob Ruby

January 22, 2021 Westminster, Md. – It is with deep sadness that the men and women of the Westminster Fire Engine and Hose Co. No. 1 announces the passing of Westminster firefighter Bob Ruby.

Bob left this earth to be with his beloved wife Shirley Ruby at 6:47 p.m. Friday evening Jan. 22, 2021, at Dove House in Westminster. He was surrounded by a roomful of firefighters who never left his side for a second from the minute he arrived at Dove House and held his hands through his last breath of air.

Firefighters, first responders. EMS providers, correctional officers, dispatchers, and police officers are a family. We stand behind each other, we look after each other, and we never leave anyone behind.

May Bob Rest in Peace. Brother Bob – your watch is over we will take it from here, you duty is done here, God has your place in heaven.

Funeral arrangements for Bob Ruby will be announced next week as soon as they are available. Questions text – do not call. – Text Chaplain Dayhoff 410 259 6403

Please join me in a moment of prayer

O god of grace and glory, we remember our brother Bob Ruby. We thank you for giving him to us to know and to love as a companion in our pilgrimage on earth. In your boundless compassion, console us who mourn.

Our thoughts and prayers are with our firefighter community at this time.

Those we love don’t go away. They walk beside us every day, Unseen, unheard, but always near, Still loved, still missed and very dear.

May memories of happy times sustain us, the support of family and friends comfort us, and may God’s love embrace you and your family and bring you peace.

Rest in paradise my friend. See you again someday. God be merciful to your good soul.

Thinking of you as you find peace during your journey and sending strength to your family as they mourn. I pray that peace will be found for all.

Amen

Westminster Fire Engine and Hose Co. No. 1 Chaplain Kevin Dayhoff

Westminster Police Officer and Firefighter Elwood Kauffman, 88

Westminster Police Officer and Firefighter Elwood Kauffman, 88
John Elwood Kauffman October 6, 1931 – May 12, 2020

Friday, May 15, 2020 – by Westminster Fire Dept. Chaplain Kevin Dayhoff

It is with great sadness that the Westminster Fire Engine and Hose Co. No. 1 announces the passing of Westminster Fire Department Life Member Elwood Kauffman, 88. Kauffman passed away on Tuesday May 12, 2020.

  • At the family’s request, viewing will be on Friday, May 15, 2020 at the Westminster Fire Department at 28 John Street in Westminster Md. from 3:00 PM-5:00 PM. It will be a drive-through format.

Elwood was the beloved husband of Iris B. Kauffman, his wife of 35 years.

He served as a full time engineer for the Westminster Fire Department in the late 50’s – until 1959. He then worked for the Westminster and Howard County Police Departments.

He worked many years as a Deputy Md. State Fire Marshal FM-1 where he was an arson investigator in the Carroll and Howard County region. After his retirement from the Fire Marshal’s Office, Kaufman was a bailiff for Carroll County Circuit Court for over 12 years.

Kauffman was born in Carroll County on October 6, 1931 to the late Margaret Essich Kauffman and J. Ralph Kauffman.

He was a graduate of Westminster High School’s Class of 1949.

Kauffman was a former member of St. Benjamin’s Lutheran Church in Westminster. Upon moving to Plum Creek in Hanover, Pa, he attended Grace United Methodist in Hanover.

A drive-through visitation for Kauffman will be held on Friday, May 15, 2020 from 3 to 5 pm at Westminster Fire Engine and Hose Company 1, 28 John Street, Westminster. Upon arrival, please remain in your vehicle and staff will direct you.

A private funeral service will be held at 11 am on Saturday, May 16, 2020 at Pritts Funeral Home & Chapel, 412 Washington Road, Westminster with Deacon Charles Barnhart, Jr. officiating.

Private Interment will follow at Meadow Branch Cemetery in Westminster. Although attendance at Elwood’s funeral service will be limited to immediate family, other guests are welcome to join virtually or by phone.

The Nathan Chris Baker Foundation provides dinner to the Westminster Firefighters

The Nathan Chris Baker Foundation provides dinner to the Westminster Firefighters

The Nathan Chris Baker Foundation provides dinner to the Westminster Firefighters. Courtesy The Nathan Chris Baker Foundation.

On Friday, May 1, 2020: The Nathan Chris Baker Foundation had Genova’s pizza delivered to the Westminster Fire Department to thank them for their service and bring smiles to their faces as well.

On Friday, May 1, 2020: The Nathan Chris Baker Foundation had Genova’s pizza delivered to the Westminster Fire Department. Photo by Kevin Dayhoff
On Friday, May 1, 2020: The Nathan Chris Baker Foundation had Genova’s pizza delivered to the Westminster Fire Department. Photo by Kevin Dayhoff
On Friday, May 1, 2020: The Nathan Chris Baker Foundation had Genova’s pizza delivered to the Westminster Fire Department. Photo by Kevin Dayhoff

In a Facebook post, the foundation said, “‘Let’s all Go Out Be Great’ right now by spreading greatness through our community.”

On Friday, May 1, 2020: The Nathan Chris Baker Foundation had Genova’s pizza delivered to the Westminster Fire Department. Photo by Kevin Dayhoff

The Westminster Fire Department would like to express its thanks to The Nathan Chris Baker Foundation for its generous and thoughtful support at a difficult time. Stay safe – stay in the house. (Hat Tip: Jeff Leppert)

By Westminster Fire Department Chaplain and PIO Kevin Dayhoff May 1, 2020

The Westminster Fire Department remembers past Westminster Fire Department Chief Robert DuVall

April 23, 2004 – April 23, 2020 by Kevin Dayhoff

WW II Marine Veteran, Small Business Owner, Welder, and an Avid Motorcyclist

The Westminster Fire Department remembers past Westminster Fire Department Chief Robert DuVall

On Friday, April 23, 2004, Carroll County and the greater Westminster community suffered a great loss with the passing of Robert Emerson DuVall, 81, of Westminster.

He was a 1939 graduate of Westminster High School.

During World War II, he served with the 3rd Marines, 4th Air Wing in the Marshall Islands, Guam, and Pelilu.

During World War II, he served with the 3rd Marines, 4th Air Wing in the Marshall Islands, Guam, and Pelilu.

Mr. DuVall was born July 12, 1922, in Carroll County, he was the son of the late G. Wilmer and Mercedes Brown DuVall.

Surviving, in addition to his wife of 53 years, Leona Hammett DuVall, are daughter and son-in-law Donna and Robert Shaeffer of Westminster; son and daughter-in-law Robert Emerson DuVall II and Patsi DuVall of Atlanta; sister and brother-in-law Donna DuVall Sellman and Russell A. Sellman of Westminster. Granddaughters Nicole DuVall Pomeroy and husband Tim, and Laci DuVall Shaeffer; grandson Robert Emerson DuVall III; and great-grandson Daniel DuVall Pomeroy.

He was a 1939 graduate of Westminster High School. During World War II, he served with the 3rd Marines, 4th Air Wing in the Marshall Islands, Guam, and Pelilu.

He was the owner of Mobile Welding Service, which he founded in 1948. He was the 11th state certified welder in Maryland. 

An avid motorcyclist and trap shooter, he was the Maryland State Trapshooting Handicap Champion in 1966. He was a member of Westminster United Methodist Church, VFW Post 467 and a life member of North Carroll and Carroll County gun clubs. He was a past chief of Westminster Fire Department.

Our thoughts and prayers are with his family as they adjust to life without him. This Memorial Tribute by the Westminster Mayor, Common Council and the Staff of The City of Westminster on behalf of the citizens of the City of Westminster, was signed in Westminster City Hall, this April Twenty-fifth in the year Two Thousand and Four. Westminster Mayor Kevin Dayhoff

Set #1: https://www.facebook.com/kevindayhoff/posts/10219434529947509

Set #2: https://www.facebook.com/kevindayhoff/posts/10219434553668102

Brent Whalen provides lunches for the fire department

Friday, May 1, 2020 by Westminster Fire Department Chaplain and PIO Kevin Dayhoff

The Westminster Fire Engine and Hose Co. No. 1 would like to give a shout out to Brent Whalen for his generosity. Mr. Whalen, a Certified Mortgage Planning Specialist at FitzGerald Financial Group, a division of Townebank, has provided lunch for the on duty and volunteer personnel 4 days in a row this week – so that he would be able to feed all four Westminster Fire Dept. shifts and as many folks as possible.

God Bless Mr. Whalen for his generous sport. (Hat Tip: Lt. Guy Garheart)

Early morning two-alarm fire injures one firefighter

Saturday morning – April 18, 2020 by Kevin Dayhoff Westminster Fire Department PIO and Chaplain.

An early morning two-alarm fire in a commercial building in the 1000 block of Baltimore Blvd. – Rte 140, injured one firefighter. The first call came in to the Emergency Communications Center at 2:18 a.m., for a report smoke coming from the side of building and fire being observed.

Units from Reese and Westminster fire departments were first on the scene in a steady light rain – with Reese taking command. Upon arrival firefighters preliminarily found a fire perhaps coming from the basement of the one-story commercial building. The building is reported to be under renovation.

Perhaps as many as 50-75 firefighters responded from Carroll County and Baltimore County. The fire was determined to be under control at 3:57 a.m. Although units remained on scene until 5 a.m. for clean-up and the help the fire marshal’s investigation. Preliminary observations indicate extensive damage to the interior of the building.

Baltimore Gas and Electric, the Maryland State Police, and the State Highway Administration also responded.

One 45-year-old volunteer firefighter with 25-years’ experience was injured fighting the fire. He was transported to Shock Trauma.

According to a release by the Office of the Maryland State Fire Marshal, “A Reisterstown Volunteer Fire Company (firefighter) sustained minor injuries after falling through the floor.”

By mid-day on Saturday, the Reisterstown Fire Department released a statement on the department website that said, “The injured firefighter is home recovering from minor injuries. We would like to thank everyone who has reached out to check on the firefighter.”

In a phone interview later in the afternoon, Reisterstown Fire Chief Craig Hewitt said that the firefighter, “was released from Shock Trauma this morning after some tests and observation. He has returned home and is recuperating from minor injuries. He is in good spirits. He is expected to recover and be back to work soon.”

The fire remains under investigation by the Maryland State Fire Marshal’s Office.

Reese fire department PIO Robin Stansbury contributed to this story.

Westminster Fire Department thanks Weis Markets for the water and the Gatorade

Westminster Fire Department thanks Weis Markets for the water and the Gatorade

In the summertime firefighters and EMS providers go through a lot of water and Gatorade. It is not a luxury.

Westminster Md. June 6, 2019 – – The men and women of the Westminster Fire Engine and Hose Co. No. 1 would like to thank Weis Markets for donating water and Gatorade for the firefighters and EMS providers.

In the summertime firefighters and EMS providers go through a lot of water and Gatorade. It is not a luxury. When you spend long hours on automobile accidents, fires, and back-to-back EMS calls, staying hydrated is a critical life, safety, and welfare issue.

The best time to stay hydrated is yesterday.

According to Westminster Fire Department President Jamie Petry on Thursday, June 6, 2019, “Weis Markets is collecting water and Gatorade for WFD. Today we picked up almost 3 pallets of water and 2 grocery carts full of Gatorade” Petry added that the department really appreciates the support of the community – and Weis Markets. Thank you.

By Westminster Fire Department PIO and Chaplain Kevin Dayhoff

 

Westminster Fire Department Volunteer Recruitment Open House

Courtesy Westminster Fire Co. – Open House at Westminster Fire Company Sunday, April 14th, 2019 from 12 pm – 5 pm. 28 John Street, Westminster, MD 21158

Westminster Fire Department Volunteer Recruitment Open House

Open House at Westminster Fire Company Sunday, April 14th, 2019 from 12 pm – 5 pm. 28 John Street, Westminster, MD 21158.

By Westminster Fire Company PIO and Chaplain Kevin Dayhoff April 8, 2019

The Westminster Volunteer Fire Department will be participating in the Maryland State Fireman’s Association’s statewide recruitment event on Sunday April 14th at the station on John Street in Downtown Westminster. Station and Apparatus tours will be offered and personnel will be available to answer any questions about becoming a member. Stop by between 12-5 PM to start your journey as a volunteer.

Interested in joining our growing professional team? Our team is comprised of individuals of many walks of life. As is the fire service in a whole, WFD fosters a “family” environment. Challenge yourself, build new skills, meet new people, and become a part of a tight-knit public safety community all while serving a purpose greater than yourself.

Benefits: While most members will agree that there are many intangible benefits of membership, there are also several other valuable benefits available to volunteers.

Following three years of qualifying active membership, members are eligible for the LOSAP program: $4,500.00+ Maryland income tax credit. And: Monthly retirement stipend after 25 years of active volunteer membership.

FREE World-Class training provided. All turnout gear and equipment provided.
On-duty insurance coverage/Workers’ Compensation. Tuition reimbursement program for College/Technical School students.

Westminster Fire Engine and Hose Company
28 John Street
Westminster, MD 21158
Sunday, April 14th, 2019 from 12 pm – 5 pm
For more information call: (410) 848-1800

Westminster Fire Company Open House recruitment Family Friendly

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Open House at Westminster Fire Company Sunday, April 14th, 2019 from 12 pm – 5 pm. 28 John Street, Westminster, MD 21158. https://www.facebook.com/events/2251279838417988/

https://patch.com/maryland/westminster/westminster-fire-department-volunteer-recruitment-open-house