In a somber turn of events, the firefighting community mourns the loss of one of its bravest members, Lawrence “Larry” Pander.
With a legacy marked by courage and dedication, Firefighter Larry’s passing leaves behind a void that echoes the profound impact he made on both his colleagues and the community he served.
In this tribute, we reflect on the remarkable life and service of a hero who dedicated himself to ensuring the safety and well-being of others. Read on to know more about his passing in detail.
Larry Pander passed away:
Garden City, Kansas is mourning the loss of a retired Firefighter Lawrence “Larry” Pander from Kansas. Larry passed away suddenly on February 27, 2024.
Garden City Fire Department – KS took to Facebook to share the heart-wrenching news of the untimely passing of one of their own, the bravest firefighter, Larry Nuke Pander.
Garden City Fire Department shared the following message on Facebook:
It is with heavy hearts that we mourn the passing of Larry Pander – a true pillar of our firefighting family. Larry wasn’t just a teacher; he was a friend, mentor, confidant, and an indispensable part of our lives. His impact on our department is immeasurable, and the void left by his departure is immense.
Larry’s passion for firefighting was contagious, and he instilled in many of our firefighters the knowledge, skills, and commitment that define our profession today. Even after retirement, Larry couldn’t resist the call of the fire station. His commitment to the field and his love for teaching went beyond the ordinary; he was family.
Our deepest sympathies go out to Larry’s family, friends, and all those whose lives he touched. To our dear friend, mentor, and brother – Rest easy. We’ll take it from here.
Larry Pander cause of death:
Larry Pander, a Volunteer Firefighter from Garden City, KS, passed away after a brief illness. He worked as a Training Manager at Kansas Fire and Rescue Training.
Pander leaves behind a legacy that resonates not only within the department but also in the hearts of those he worked alongside. Tributes flooded social media as soon as his death news broke out.
Despite the lack of clarity surrounding the circumstances, an outpouring of condolences, tributes, and heartfelt messages has flooded in from Larry’s colleagues, friends, and various fire departments, underscoring the profound impact he had on those around him.
Who was Larry Pander?
Larry also known as Nuke was a volunteer firefighter from the city of Holcomb, Kansas. He was an IFSAC Instructor I-III and served in Houston Fire for 30 years.
He provided Training for all of western KS Paid and Vol. Depts. He was a Garden City Community College’s director of the fire program and he also served in the Kansas Fire and was a member of the Kansas Fire and Rescue Training Commission.
Larry attended Houston Community College and he had 17 years of experience in training.
Tributes to Larry Pander:
Chris Gomez posted,
Beautifully said GCFD! Rest easy “Nuke” we got it from here
George Garza wrote,
It is with deepest regret and sorrow that our brother firefighter Larry (Nuke) Pander went to Heaven last night. Prayers brother.
Ron Hartman posted,
The legend! Nuke, your teachings leave a legacy that will reach far and wide for many generations to come! Love you brother.
Peter Nyquist wrote,
Rest Easy Larry nuke. You have trained so many people and it was an honor to know you as a teacher. Friend, and Brother of the Fire Service.