Fallen Firefighters Will Be Remembered

A town is in mourning after two firefighters died in a silo explosion. The two New Bremen firemen died Wednesday after an explosion blew the top off a silo at the Hoge Lumber Co. in New Knoxville. Now, residents of the tiny Auglaize County town, are trying to cope with the tragedy.

Former firefighter Jeff Pape knew both victims of the silo explosion. He said Kenneth Jutte and John Garman were valuable members of the department and the community. Pape said Garman was devoted to the fire department and was always doing any extra cleanup and repairs that needed to be done. Jutte was the father of three children and a devoted little league baseball coach.

Five firefighters were treated and released from local hospitals. Two firefighters were admitted to Saint Rita's Medical Center in Lima. Their names were not released, but a nursing supervisor said they are in good and fair condition.

Silo Explodes At Local Lumber Yard Pape said Garman was devoted to the fire department and was always doing any extra cleanup and repairs that needed to be done. He said Jutte was the father of three children and a devoted little league baseball coach.

Previous Story: October 1, 2003: Firefighters Killed In Silo Explosion Identified

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