KGMI News
by Dillon Honcoop
LYNDEN, Wash. – Bellingham Fire Pipes and Drums played “Amazing Grace” as hundreds honored fallen Lynden Fire Chief Robert Spinner at a memorial service at the Northwest Washington Fairgrounds Saturday.
Spinner, 50, collapsed during routine exercise July 14th and later died at the hospital of an apparent heart attack.
60+ first responder vehicles joined funeral procession to honor fallen @LyndenFire Chief Robert Spinner. Service still ongoing at @NWWAFair pic.twitter.com/LDDv9w1tCk
— Dillon Honcoop (@DillonHoncoop) July 22, 2017
He was recently named Interim Chief in Lynden after Gary Baar retired.
Assistant Bellingham Fire Chief Bill Hewett said it was an emotional day for many.
“It’s hard to put into words how much Chief Spinner has touched the lives of the fire service throughout Whatcom County, the state of Washington, and across the United States,” Hewett said.
Retired @LyndenFire Chief Gary Baar speaking right now at Interim Chief Robert Spinner's memorial service. pic.twitter.com/0kqVhNYHEF
— Dillon Honcoop (@DillonHoncoop) July 22, 2017
Fire and EMS crews from around the county had been helping cover Lynden’s calls all week while the department mourned the loss, said Hewett.
Baar will come out of retirement to cover chief duties until a new leader is hired.
.@BellinghamFire Pipes & Drums played "Amazing Grace" at the close of the memorial for @LyndenFire Chief Robert Spinner. pic.twitter.com/aEMGgIcoYQ
— Dillon Honcoop (@DillonHoncoop) July 22, 2017
A procession of over 50 first responder vehicles from around Whatcom County escorted Spinner’s body to the cemetery before the memorial service at the fairgrounds.
Spinner was the department’s first on-duty death in its 107-year history.
https://www.facebook.com/dillon.honcoop.5/videos/10155297325006014/