Kane County: Fire District Sets Up Scholarship Fund for Fallen Crew Member

Rutland-Dundee Fire Protection District officials moved to establish a scholarship fund on Friday following the death of firefighter Greg Witt, a 35-year-old crew member who died on Oct. 25. Witt suffered a medical emergency during a training exercise on Oct. 21, an event that precipitated the district's financial and ceremonial response to the loss.

Chief Christopher Reedy confirmed that the district is assisting Witt's family in creating the Rutland-Dundee FPD Memorial Fund. The fund is designed to provide scholarships in Witt's name. Reedy stated that the department has lost a member of their family and that Witt served both the U.S. Marine Corps and the local community with honor. The chief noted that the department's hearts are with Witt's family and the members who worked alongside him.

A procession of dozens of fire engines and first responders from local agencies traveled along closed roads from West Dundee to the Pingree Grove area on Friday morning. The parade served as a public tribute, with residents lining the streets to pay their respects. One resident displayed a large American flag to honor Witt's service. A black ribbon was tied around one of the district's engines at the start of the event.

Witt joined the Rutland-Dundee fire team in 2019. Before his civilian career, he served in the U.S. Marine Corps from 2013 to 2018. His obituary notes that he graduated from Jacobs High School in Algonquin in 2009. He later earned an associate degree in Fire Science and Safety from Elgin Community College in 2020.

Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker ordered flags lowered from sunrise Thursday to sundown Friday in Witt's honor. A resolution accompanying the order described Witt as a valiant and passionate public servant. The village of West Dundee also issued a statement honoring his dedicated service.

The St. Charles Fire Department posted its condolences, noting that words cannot fill the void left when a brother or sister is lost. The Rutland-Dundee district serves Gilberts, Sleepy Hollow, and surrounding unincorporated Kane County communities. The department frequently provides mutual aid to East Dundee, West Dundee, and Carpentersville.