Wythe County community mourns loss of county’s first paramedic

WYTHEVILLE, Va. ( WFXR )– The Wytheville and Wythe County communities are mourning the loss of Ivanhoe Volunteer Fire Department lifelong member and safety officer Donnie Widner.

The fire department says Widner was a member of the Ivanhoe Volunteer Fire Department, the Lead Mines Rescue Squad, a Rural Retreat Volunteer Emergency Services member, and an Honorary Member of the Wytheville Volunteer Fire Department. Ivanhoe Volunteer says he was also Wythe County’s first paramedic.

During his tenure, Widner served as a firefighter, Critical Care Paramedic, Lieutenant, Captain, Deputy Chief, Assistant Chief, and Safety Officer. He was dedicated to serving his community and helping others.

The Ivanhoe Volunteer Fire Department says Widner passed away on Friday, July 19 after a long battle with his kidneys.

Following the news of his passing, both the Wytheville Police Department and Wytheville Fire & Rescue Department released a statement.

It is with heavy heart the Wytheville Police Department sends our condolences to the family, friends, and first responder family of Paramedic Donnie Widner. He was a true friend to Law Enforcement, Fire, and Rescue. His 40 years of service and commitment to the community will never be forgotten.

Wytheville Police Department

The Ivanhoe Volunteer Fire Department says it is sending its thoughts, prayers, and condolences to the Widner family.

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