It is with deep regret that we announce the passing of our last Charter member Ralph Blades, Sr.. Mr. Blades passed away yesterday at the age of 95. He will be sadly missed by our membership. Please keep his family and friends in your thoughts and prayers as they go through this difficult time. Ralph joined the Bowers Fire Company in 1938 at the age of 18. This year he would have turned 96 and his love for the fire company was just as strong today as it was when he joined. Although he never held an officer’s position, he was always in the background doing the odd jobs that kept the company going. He remembers being one on the bucket brigade and then graduating to a hose man. He could tell you all about the apparatus we had then and how it compares to what we have now. He has been a great source of information and stories about the early days. He was amazed at how far we have come over the years. He has still contributed over the years by participating in conference parades and our 75th Anniversary celebration. Sometimes the ones that aren’t in the officer’s seat have the best view, they can observe and take in their surroundings and that is what Ralph did for the past 78 years. He came to functions that we held when his health would allow and we were always anxious to talk to him and hear about the past. The older generation is to be cherished for their insight and guidance. In 2006 he was awarded Chief Emeritus at our annual membership appreciation banquet for his dedicated service and commitment to our department. Ralph Blades was featured in the Fire Service News in 2008. When he was asked what he loved the most about his long career as a member of our department he replied, “The meetings, the get togethers, and the parades. Fighting the fire was work.” With a chuckle he also said, “But it was a lot of fun.” Mr. Blades will be sadly missed by our department.

Views: 9