Riley County firefighters mourn loss of 'pillar of our community'
RILEY COUNTY (KSNT) - A local fire agency is mourning the loss of one of its own who left a profound impact on the community he served for more than four decades.
The Riley County Fire District #1 took to social media on Dec. 4 to share its memories of Ross Hauck who passed away on Nov. 30, 2024. Hauck died at the age of 76 and was still an active participant with the district at the time of his passing.
Ross spent 44 years with the fire district, dedicating his time to serving the local community. He also spent 31 years as a registered animal hospital technician and joined the Kansas Forest Service (KFS) in 2002 as a fire prevention specialist before later becoming a program coordinator in 2004.
"Our thoughts and prayers are with Ross’s family, friends, and loved ones during this difficult time. He will forever be remembered as a pillar of our community and a beloved member of the RCFD#1 family."
RCFD #1 social media statement excerpt
While he would later retire from the KFS in 2018 while serving in the position of a Kansas associate forester, Ross continued to work as a community and volunteer firefighter, according to his obituary. He earned his bachelor's and master of science degrees at Kansas State University.
Kevin Hauck, Ross' oldest son, spoke to 27 News about his father's passing. He said his dad spent his childhood working on a farm and had to shoulder a large amount of responsibility at an early age.
"His father died when my dad was 14," Kevin said. "His only sibling died when he was 17. In just a four-year period he lost his dad and brother. That's the only reason he didn't go to Vietnam, he was the only male left in the house to run the farm."
Kevin said his dad "stumbled into his career" as a firefighter which was his true passion alongside working as a veterinarian. His family is looking to start a GoFundMe soon to gather money for the Riley County Fire Association to support local firefighters following Ross' death.
"He lived a long life and was still active," Kevin said. "He got to see his kids grow up, his grandkids. We try to view it as a blessing he got to do so many things and live a long and fulfilling life."
Ross is survived by his wife, two sons and grandchildren. He will be laid to rest at the Pleasant Valley Cemetery at 2050 Pleasant Valley Road following a visitation service from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, Dec. 14 at the Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home.
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