VIGO CO. – An Indiana firefighter died in the line of duty Thursday night in Vigo County.
The Prairieton Fire Department announced District Chief Dave Phelps died of an apparent heart attack while responding to a structure fire.
Phelps had served the community for nearly 60 years and “was a highly respected firefighter that had a love and passion for the job.”
“This is a great loss for our department, the community, and his family,” the department posted on Facebook. “Please continue to pray for strength for his friends, family, and fellow firefighters.”
The Indiana State Fire Marshal said the department’s investigators are helping to determine the cause and origin of the fire.
Phelps is survived by his wife Mickey and two children Drew and Ramie.
Visitation will be on Tuesday, November 7, from 4:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. in DeBaun Springhill Chapel with a memorial service conducted by the IVFA at the end of visitation. Funeral services will be Wednesday, November 8, at 10:30 a.m., in the funeral home. Burial will be in New Harmony Cemetery where line-of-duty death honors will be provided by the Fire Service.
Online condolences may be left at www.debaunfuneralhomes.com.
