Donald Dean Myrick‚ 49‚ volunteer firefighter‚ Ludlow Fire Protection District‚ died June 22‚ 2001‚ form injuries sustained in a motor vehicle accident while responding to a call. A former assistant chief‚ he served with the department for 21 years and took part in most department projects. He was an avid hunter and fisherman.

Submitted by a Friend

Sunday‚ June 22‚ 2001

I lost a friend today; a good friend. He was on his way to help someone‚ probably a stranger; possibly not. He would never know. After his pager alerted him at 5 AM to an accident‚ he was out the door. His truck rolled over as he was responding. Twenty-one years of service ended this morning.

Tears and smiles come and go as I recall the times working together. Hot days‚ soaked in sweat; cold nights‚ covered in ice; and pleasant days‚ when he should have been planting or harvesting. He personified the volunteer firefighter; Drop what you’re doing‚ someone needs help.

Many times we shared a couple of Big Oranges after a meeting‚ playing cards or solving our small problems or the world’s big ones. He had a sharp mind‚ a caring heart‚ and a gentle spirit. His leadership and versatility earned the respect of all. His tales of triumph and mishap garnered the ears of all.

If you live in or around Ludlow‚ you will miss Don Myrick‚ whether you knew him or not. His dedication and hard work were unending‚ his gift to his neighbors. I have no qualms speaking for the entire department; we are proud to have served beside him.

When it came time to help‚ he gave all he had.

Dennis Reep