CHARLIE CORDELL
On November 22, 2012, charter and retired department member, Charlie Cordell passed away at his home. The department will miss Charlie’s extensive knowledge of all the hills and hollows of the district.
He was a charter member of the Fort Lewis Mesa Fire Protection District and served as a volunteer for 24 years, eventually achieving the rank of captain.
“Charlie was one of the last true cowboys,” his family said. “He will be forever missed by those who love him.”
We extend our sympathy to his family which includes his wife Bonnie and daughter Charlotte who are former members of the department. DurangoHerald obituary here.
BRUCE KOWALSKI
On December 1, 2012, retired department member Bruce Kowalski passed away at home. Known to us as “the Professor”, Bruce’s ready smile and constant encouragement will be missed.
After Bruce retired as a professor of Chemistry, he joined the Fort Lewis Mesa Fire Department where his specialty was HazMat. Bruce and his beloved companion, Chaco-Bob, were involved with canine search and rescue. His work with FLMFPD, Durango Fire and Rescue, and canine search and rescue was among his proudest accomplishments.
We’re sending heartfelt sympathy to Sandy (his wife and former Fire Board member) and the rest of his family. Hood Mortuary obituary here.
