In Memory of Firefighter Cole: Centralia Fire Department Launches Fundraiser for Life-Saving Rescue Equipment

It is with heavy hearts that we share the tragic news of the passing of our beloved fellow firefighter, brother, son, and family member, Cole, following a recent and devastating farming accident. Cole was a shining example of what it means to serve others—with courage, humility, and an unbreakable bond to his community. His loss is deeply felt by his family, our Centralia Fire Department, and the entire community he loved so dearly.

In the wake of this unimaginable tragedy, we find ourselves not only grieving, but reflecting on how we can honor Cole’s memory in a way that makes a lasting impact—something that embodies the selflessness and dedication he showed every day. It is in that spirit that we have launched a fundraising effort to help upgrade our extraction equipment, which is vital for responding to emergencies like the very one that took Cole’s life.

As it stands, our department’s Jaws of Life set is outdated and no longer operational. This puts both our firefighters and those we serve at risk in time-sensitive situations such as farm accidents, vehicle extractions, and structural collapses. These are not just tools—they are lifelines. In Cole’s case, and in too many others, the minutes matter. Having reliable, modern equipment can make the difference between life and death.

Thanks to the generosity of Marysville Fire, we’ve been temporarily loaned a spare set of extraction tools, which has enabled us to continue answering critical calls. However, this is a temporary solution, and we are now working diligently to raise the $34,000 needed to purchase a new set of high-performance rescue tools that will help us save lives throughout Centralia and in surrounding rural communities.

Farming operations in our area continue to grow in both scale and complexity, and our emergency response capabilities must evolve with them. As call volumes and emergency types change, we need to be equipped and ready for the challenges that lie ahead. But like everything, upgrading comes with a price tag—one that small departments like ours cannot shoulder alone.

We are asking for your help.

If you are in a position to give, please know that every dollar matters. A special account has been established at First Heritage Bank under:
The Centralia Fire Department Jaws Fund
This fund will go directly toward purchasing the new extraction equipment we so desperately need.

For more information on how to donate, how to get involved, or how you can help us spread the word, please reach out directly to myself or any member of the Centralia Fire Department. We are also working on outreach events and partnership opportunities with local businesses and civic organizations to help meet our fundraising goal.

In just a short amount of time, the outpouring of support, kindness, and generosity from our neighbors, friends, and fellow emergency responders has reminded us that in times of heartbreak, community is our greatest strength. We are so deeply grateful for your compassion and commitment.

Let’s turn this tragedy into a force for good. Let’s make sure that Cole’s legacy lives on in every life that is saved by the equipment his memory helped provide. Let’s come together—not just as a town, but as a family—and make sure that our firefighters have the tools they need to protect the people we love.