- A Paw Paw Firefighter lost his life tragically and is survived by his young daughter and wife.
- The small village of Paw Paw in southwest Michigan is grieving after the untimely death of a volunteer firefighter. Lt. Ethan Quillen, 28, passed away on Wednesday evening while responding to a call about a tree branch on a power line in Almena Township.
- An ice storm severely impacted the area, leading to numerous similar incidents caused by freezing rain.
- Despite the joint efforts of multiple agencies at the scene to transport him to Bronson Hospital in Kalamazoo, Quillen did not survive the incident and succumbed in the hospital.
- Adams Funeral Home released details of his obituary and funeral services. They have scheduled the funeral on Saturday, March 4, 2023, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at Paw Paw High School, 30609 Red Arrow Highway, Paw Paw, MI, 49079.
Upon hearing the news of a Paw Paw firefighter who perished in the line of duty, the community and fellow firefighters were left stunned and sorrowful over the unfortunate loss.
The small village of Paw Paw in southwest Michigan is mourning the unexpected death of a volunteer firefighter. Lt. Ethan Quillen, 28, lost his life on Wednesday evening while responding to a call about a tree branch on a power line in Almena Township.
An ice storm hit the area hard, with firefighters across the state dealing with similar calls caused by freezing rain.
According to a statement by the Paw Paw Volunteer Fire Department on Facebook, while firefighters were securing the scene, a tree branch fell, bringing down the power line and striking Quillen.
Despite the combined efforts of multiple agencies at the scene to transfer him to Bronson Hospital in Kalamazoo, Quillen did not survive the incident and passed away in the hospital. He leaves behind his wife and their young daughter.
Quillen has been a volunteer firefighter with the Paw Paw department since September 2019. He was described as a “selfless, kind, loving, hardworking” man who loved his country and community.
In a statement, the department asked for thoughts and prayers for Quillen’s family, friends, fellow firefighters, dispatchers, and all other emergency responders affected by the tragic loss.
In response to the news, the department set up a GoFundMe account to help Quillen’s wife and daughter. The fundraiser quickly surpassed its $25,000 goal, with donations totaling over $119,786 as of Monday morning.
Local businesses also rallied to support the family, with Sporty’s Pub & Veranda Grille setting up a tribute jar over the weekend, with 10% of sales going towards the cause.
Quillen was not only a dedicated firefighter but also a Marine veteran and an employee of the Michigan Department of Transportation.
Paw Paw Fire Chief Jim DeGroff spoke highly of Quillen in an interview with FOX 17 West Michigan. Quillen recalled his promotion to lieutenant last September and his commitment to serving the community. Paw Paw Fire Chief also mentioned that Quillen never let him down.
DeGroff said, “We take nothing for granted. Ethan didn’t want anything the other night when he was working on that scene. He literally gave his life. I just want Ethan and his family to know I will not let them down.”
The tragic loss of Lt. Ethan Quillen has left Paw Paw and the wider firefighting community reeling. As they mourn his passing, his family, friends, and colleagues are left to remember his selflessness, kindness, and unwavering dedication to his community.
Adams Funeral Home announced his obituary and funeral services. According to them, the funeral will be held on Saturday, March 4, 2023, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at Paw Paw High School, 30609 Red Arrow Highway, Paw Paw, MI, 49079.
