Growing up Garrett Ramos didn’t intend to follow in his father’s footsteps and join the fire department but ended up loving the profession and would often say, “We have the best job in the world.” Ramos enjoyed serving the community he grew up in and felt a responsibility to do so. Garrett was committed to training and growing as a firefighter.

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In the early hours of December 4th, 2021, while Lieutenant Ramos was fighting a house fire in rural Rock Falls, the floor collapsed beneath him. The Sterling Fire Department was one of 11 fire districts that responded to the house fire. After the floor collapsed rescue operations commenced, and lifesaving efforts were made before Ramos was pronounced dead early Saturday morning. Ramos’ death is the first line of duty death in Sterling Fire Department history. A rescue operation was conducted, and lifesaving techniques were made but he succumbed to his injuries.

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Ramos was posthumously promoted to captain, having served as acting captain for the past year prior to his death. He had been a member of Sterling Fire Department for nine years. He is survived by his wife and two children.

Our hearts are with the Ramos family and the Sterling Fire Department.

To donate in memory of Lieutenant Ramos, please visit our Fallen Heroes Donation page.