John Kobus

It is with deep regret that we announce the passing of John Kobus. We were informed Friday afternoon by Debbie Etter, who learned from her husband Rick, who flew out to Oklahoma to be with John and was there when he passed away. John Kobus became a member in mid-1990 and served until around 2008. In addition to being a firefighter, John served several years as secretary and was the treasurer during the last years of Bingo. He was recognized several times for his assistance with tool cleaning and repair and upkeep of equipment. John also served several years as the Company Representative to the EMS Council. John was involved in a near miss in 2002, at a house fire in Leesburg. Flames were already through the roof of a two story, light weight construction home, when the first units arrived. Master streams were used to knock the fire down before crews transitioned to an interior attack. John Kobus and Marty Mantel were operating a hand line in the first-floor foyer when the second-floor ceiling collapsed onto them. Both were stunned but managed to get out with no serious injuries. John Kobus was always ready to lend a hand where needed. Whether it was fundraising, pub ed's or maintenance, he pitched in and got it done. He was a soft-spoken man who loved history and did a great deal of work behind the scenes for the Company. John leaves behind a sister who lives in Missouri, a niece who lives in Oklahoma and his fire service family. Arrangements are pending. Please keep John and his family in your thoughts and prayers