In loving memory of Deputy Chief John R. Horvat, Sr.November 23, 1951 - October 23, 2005Deputy Chief Horvat began his service to the Wheaton Volunteer Rescue Squad in March of 1977. He rose to the rank of Deputy Chief after many years of dedicated service to the Wheaton, Kensington, and Silver Spring communities. Even after nearly 30 years of service, he routinely spent several nights a week at the rescue squad, repairing equipment, training new members, and serving as a mentor to the entire organization. Deputy Chief Horvat is survived by his wife Beth, sons John Jr and Michael, daughter Laura Barnes, granddaughter Alexandra, his mother Phyllis Horvat, and sisters Dona, Susan, and Jill. Deputy Chief Horvat's funeral was held on October 27, 2005. Thank you to the members of the rescue squad, past and present, the extended fire/rescue family in Montgomery County and beyond, the Montgomery County Police, the staff and students from Seneca Valley High School, Hughes United Methodist Church, and all the other friends who came together in a great tribute to John's life. Offsite links:
Washington Post story
Memories of D/C John HorvatMemories to be shared with the family and friends
On 11/10/2005 4:56 pm Sean Howley (Life Member, EMT, Sunday Crew, WVRS) wrote, Being at the Rescue Squad yesterday morning, when the "call" dispatching
the accidental fall and subsequent death of D/C Horvat, was one of the
more challenging days I've had to experience since the death of my father
more then a year ago. It just brought back alot of sad and bad memories
or me.
On 11/10/2005 4:54 pm Jacob DeGlopper (Wm. Alan Hinde) wrote, It is very difficult to put into words the meaning of having known a person
like John Horvat. He was the kind of member everyone of us wish for every
time a new applicant walks through the door, someone who would dedicate his
life to serving others and do it with respect for others. He was a rare
breed of member that the Wheaton Volunteer Rescue Squad as well as the rest
of the Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Service will miss. John also
devoted his life to helping kids growing up in a fast paced society. He
would spend time with kids at Scenca Valley High School teaching them how
to set up stages for performances as well as putting together the school TV
show. All of the Division of Volunteer Fire Services Staff send our
condolences to John's family an d all of the Officers and Members of the
Wheaton Volunteer Rescue Squad.
Ironically enough, Chief Horvat was one of the lead command staff that helped comfort me during my time of need. As so many have said, and I am sure others will continue to say, this was so typical of John Horvat! Let me share a quotation from a note Chief Horvat sent me after my dad died, "We are all scared of the unknown, even with the guarantees from the Heavenly Bible , for we are uncertain of what we will find. But, with your dad there, you now know one will be waiting for you when the Lord calls you home." Well, I take comfort knowing that my dad now has someone to watch over him, like John did for me not so long ago. But, I also take solace in knowing that I have "two friends" awaiting for me when it is my time to "go home". Chief, your kindess, your demeanor, and your way of "correcting" or "applauding" those that served under you will not be forgotten. Chief, I am really not all that religious, but may the Lord place you in the palm of His hand and may perpetual light shine down upon you!! Like I told you then, and I will repeat now, 'Chief, thanks for all you did for me'! Just know John, that it is now "our" turn at the Squad to take care of you! So, rest comfortably. Peace, Sean
On 11/10/2005 4:51 pm Jacob DeGlopper (Justin Gibbins) wrote, A truely sad day for the entire fire/rescue service. A major loss for the
WVRS. D/C Horvat's dedication to the service and organization was
un-matched. Lessons I learned from him years ago I pass on and use daily.
May God Bless the family and friends of Chief Horvat. Rest in Peace Chief.
On 11/10/2005 4:46 pm Steven Bettis (Past WVRS member / MFF Howard Co DFRS) wrote, Tonight I learned that the fire sevice lost a very dedicated leader. Those
that have worked with John at any capacity know how important helping
others and making a difference was to him. He not only gave his time to
the Rescue Squad but also served as a very dedicated mentor/employee at
Seneca Valley HS. He was a mentor, friend and positive role model. On
behalf of Howard County Fire and Rescue and the Howard County Professional
Firefighters Local 2000, we would like to express our deepest sympathy to
the Horvat Family and the Members/Officers of the the Wheaton Volunteer
Rescue Squad. Rest in peace John and thank you for the memories!!
On 11/10/2005 4:44 pm Michael A. Valente (Sandy Spring VFD) wrote, I join the rest of our extended fire and rescue family in shock and sorrow
of the tragic, untimely death of our brother and friend John. I did not
know him exceptionally well, but did in fact work with im while I was
Secretary of the CFRCOA this past year. He was highly regarded for his
indomitable spirit of volunteer spirit and dedication, and was a special
friend to us here at Sandy Spring. May he rest in everlasting peace,
and may his spirit and legacy live on in all of us. May God's grace
comfort our family, and his, in this time of great loss.
On 11/10/2005 4:43 pm Ernesto Gluecksmann (Former R2 Member) wrote, It was very shocking and sad to hear about Chief Horvat today. We know
time will catch up to us all one day, but Chief Horvat had a lot more to
give and his untimely departure just doesn't seem right. I think it is a
natural every day busy life kind of thing that we all so easily take for
granted just how much personal sacrifice members like John have given to
the squad. Maybe some of us think it is sad that we only realize this when
we lose someone, but I think we should actually be very grateful. We
should grateful that John has given us this opportunity to think about just
how lucky we were to have had a person like him in our lives and our
community. He was willing to give so much of himself without any
expectations of reward or pay. A simple thanks is all he ever needed. At
times, he had to be a tough guy with us to keep us in line and above all,
safe and sound. He made sure we learned how to do what it took be a
volunteer and a professional. He was a tough act to follow and was an
ideal example of unwavering commitment. He taught a lot of us all with his
years of experience and helped a few us to grow up a little bit as well. I
know I am very proud to have worked with John at R2. I take this as yet
another lesson I ve learned from John and I'll keep it with me for the rest
of my life. My deepest condolences to his family. I thank you for sharing
him with us. His energy and attention to the squad are irreplaceable and
will sorely be missed. And, oh yeah, Thanks, Chief.
On 11/10/2005 3:38 pm Jeff Halverson (Former R2 medic) wrote, I was shocked and saddened to hear about John's passing. John's leadership served as a role model for me, and his sense of humor gave spirit to the entire company. His dedication to the squad was phenomenal. I have very fond memories of John, and I wish for peace for John's family, his extended family at R2 and the larger fire and rescue community of Montgomery County.
On 11/10/2005 3:37 pm Kalem Malcolm (Former R2 Medic) wrote, I'm so sorry to hear of Chief Horvat's death.
I was a member of Wheaton for a few years while stationed at Bethesda and a live-in for a while after I got out of the military. While living there, I hopped on the medic unit (when they already had 4 members on board) for a good sounding call. The call actually turned out to be not that much, we didn't even transport. When we got back to the station I saw his Explorer parked out front and knew I was about to get reamed. He saw me get out of the truck and held me in the bays while the rest of the crew went back inside. He asked me, Should you have gone on that call? I said no. He then asked with a smirk, Do I need to say anything more? Again I said no. He walked to his Explorer and drove off. For some reason, everyone in the station was disappointed that there wasn't more of a show. Again, I'm so sorry for this loss.My thoughts and prayers are with John's family and all of the crew at Rescue 2.
On 11/8/2005 1:47 pm Joe Matosian (Former Member) wrote,
On 11/8/2005 1:47 pm Anne Harrison (WVRS alumni, MCFRS lieutenant (Retired)) wrote, I also joined WVRS in 1977 and ran a lot of good calls with John. Favorite memories of John include his extending an open invitation to the entire fire service at the drive-in, and learning to disco dance from Sobo in the dayroom ... This morning, shortly after he fell, someone at his church called my church to let us know what had happened. They said that although he was paid to run the media for a church on Sunday mornings at Seneca Valley HS, he was also in the habit of stopping by on his own time to give the staff a "heads up" of any problems related to the building that might affect church services the following weekend. This says a lot about his character, always going the extra mile to help out. My condolences to his family and the R2 crew
I was a member of the Squad in the late 70's and early 80's and ran many calls with John. He was a friend, mentor, and true American hero in my eyes. John undoubtedly touched many lives, mine included, and made us all better people for having spent time with him. Although I live in Augusta, GA now I think it was fate that caused me to tune into WTOP radio just as the announcement of his death was made. My sincere condolences go out to his family and friends. May God bless John, WVRS, and all of us that knew him. You will all be in my prayers during this difficult time.
On 11/8/2005 1:46 pm Susan Henderson Mangubat (Former WVRS Member) wrote,
On 11/8/2005 1:45 pm Gerald Smith (Life Member - KVFD, Former Member - WVRS) wrote, I'm sad to hear of John's death. I was active in WVRS between 1977 ~1989. I have fond memories of my time and enjoyed working with John and learning from him. I want to express my deepest sympathy to his family for their loss. John and I started at the Squad at the same time and spend many hours training together (both in classes and at the squad). John was a valuable assest to the squad and I know he loved what he did in helping the community. We will miss you John -- God Bless
On 11/8/2005 1:43 pm Matt Larson (Former Duty Chief (GWGVFD, GVFD), past Vice Chair of CFRCOA) wrote, I knew John for over 20 years, since I was in High School at Seneca Valley and he was the technical services guru at the school. Following high school, I encountered him many times in the fire and rescue service. In the recent past, I served as the Vice Chair of the Community Fire and Rescue Chief Officer's Association when John was the Chair. I was absolutely stunned to hear this morning of the horrible accident which claimed his life. In a way, though, it was not surprising to learn that he died doing what he so often did - giving of himself to help others and better the community in which he lived and worked. I know that there are many in the Fire and Rescue family whose careers in the service were inspired by John. His dedication and devotion to the fire service was truly remarkable, and his inspiration, leadership and friendship will be deeply missed by a great many people. Heaven is truly a better place today for his presence there, and our world truly less so with his passing.
On 10/23/2005 3:20 pm Erik Karlsons (Assistant Chief) wrote, John was the most dedicated and reliable person I have ever known. John was a co-worker, mentor and friend. Lord knows I helped him lose a few hairs many a time. John touched many lives during his time at the squad. I will always remember the "candy machine glass". He will be truly missed. Rest in peace Chief.
On 10/23/2005 3:16 pm Bill Prudden (Sgt., Sunday Night OIC, emeritus) wrote,
On 10/23/2005 3:06 pm Daniel Terry (EMT, Laytonsville Sta. 17) wrote, This all seems too unreal....but it is very real, unfortunately. I can still remember seeing him at school, and going to school with his son Mike (not so long ago!) I never pay attention to the notices at my firehouse (pertaining to deaths, etc., 'cause it's usually someone I never knew), but I read this one today, and saw my chief and DC talking about it. They were in shock, as we all are now. He was respected, and will be missed.
In the 80's. as a member of the squad (almost a live-in), I learned, amongst other things, how to be an ambulance driver, a squad tech, a squad driver, and eventually an officer from Johns dedication. We had our challenges, but it always ended up being for the good of the squad (and me too). Some of you guys will probably remember the bbq hamburger and pool parties on Bel Pre, I hope. I certainly will... Hang in there guys, we miss him out here too. Keep in touch 
In Memory of First Vice President William A. BellNovember 4, 1944 - February 21, 2007It is with deep sadness that the Wheaton Volunteer Rescue Squad announces the sudden death of retired career Sergeant, mechanic, Life Member, and current First Vice President and Captain William A. Bell Jr on the afternoon of February 21, 2007.Viewing TUE 27 FEB, 1500-1700 & 1900-2100 Gasch’s Funeral Home, 4739 Baltimore Ave, Hyattsville, MD Funeral WED 28 FEB 1100 hrs, Gasch’s Funeral Home with internment to follow at Fort Lincoln Cemetery, 3401 Bladensburg Rd., Brentwood, MD Reception to follow: Glenn Dale Volunteer Fire Association, 11900 Glenn Dale Blvd., Glenn Dale, MD 20769 (PG Sta. 18) The family has asked to please omit flowers, donations in lieu of to Wheaton Volunteer Rescue Squad.
In Memory of Chief Harold M. "Buddy" SchantzMarch 18, 1942 - February 19, 2007It is with deep sadness that the Wheaton Volunteer Rescue Squad announces the death of Life Member and Past Chief Harold M. "Buddy" Schantz suddenly, at home, on the morning of February 19, 2007.Funeral1:30 pm, Saturday, February 24, 2007
Saint Luke Lutheran Church, 9100 Colesville Rd., Silver Spring, MD Burial to follow - Norbeck Memorial Gardens, Georgia Ave. & Batchelors Forest Rd., Olney, MD The family has asked to please omit flowers, donations in lieu of to Wheaton Volunteer Rescue Squad.
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