Western Springs Firefighter Passes Away

WESTERN SPRINGS, IL — Western Springs Lieutenant Richard Jacobson of the fire department passed away June 20. According to a release from the fire department, Jacobson had battled ALS since 2011.

Fire Chief Patrick Kenny said in a release Jacobson battled ALS with the courage and dignity reserved for true heroes. Jacobson was appointed in 2005, and remained involved and on the active roster for the fire department for the past 12 years until his passing, according to the release.

The fire department said memorial bunting will be hung as well and the fire department flag will be lowered to half-mast at both fire stations. Both tributes will remain in place for 30 days, according to the release.

Services for Lieutenant Richard Jacobson were held at the Hallowell and James Funeral Home, 1025 W. 55th St., Countryside. Visitation was Friday, June 23, from 2 to 8 p.m.

In lieu of flowers family has requested donations to: The Les Turner ALS Foundation http://lesturnerals.org/ (847) 679-3311 or Lutheran Child and Family Services of Illinois https://www.lcfs.org/ (800) 363-LCFS.

A memorial service is scheduled for July 22 at the Western Springs Headquarters Station, 4353 Wolf Road.

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