Former fire chief honored by many first responders

Matthew O. Stephens, Special to the Gazette | Sep 16, 20210

Jullene Sager | The Gazette count

First responders lead the procession for Colfax Fire Chief Jim Krouse down Mill Street in Colfax.

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COLFAX — First responders from as far as Whidbey Island gathered in Colfax to honor long-time Colfax Fire Chief Jim Krouse as he took his last ride.

On Sept. 10, 46 apparatus from around the state lined up to follow the American LaFrance firetruck Krouse was carried in. The antique truck was the same his father had purchased during his time as fire chief. One of Krouse’s final wishes was to be able to take his final ride in it.

“Making this final wish come true was of the utmost importance,” said Ben Shearer, of the Pasco Fire Department. “The antique truck needed a part, and we initiated a na...