Officials are mourning the death of a Huntley Fire Protection District lieutenant who died on Wednesday after recently retiring due to an advanced-stage cancer diagnosis.
Huntley Fire Chief Scott Ravagnie on Friday announced the death of Lieutenant Ken Larsen.
Larsen was a 21.5-year veteran of the Huntley Fire Protection District. He began his service in May 2002 and retired in November 2023.
“He was a beloved member of the fire service community and is remembered for his dedication, leadership, and passion for helping others,” Ravagnie said.
Larsen served as a firefighter-paramedic with the Woodstock Fire/Rescue District prior to Huntley. He served for Woodstock from 1987 through 2008.
He was also an active member of the Lake Geneva Fire Department, “further exemplifying his commitment to protecting and serving multiple communities,” Ravagnie said.
Larsen was also a member of Illinois Task Force 1 (IL-TF1) where he served as the Division 5 Hazardous Materials Technician (HazMat) Assistant Team Lead and assisted with the deployment during Hurricane Ida in 2021.
He also earned the certification of Illinois Chief Fire Officer and completed the National Fire Academy’s Managing Fire Officer Program.
Ravagnie said Larsen retired from the Huntley Fire Protection District to focus on his health.
He was diagnosed with Stage IV esophageal cancer in February 2023 which later spread to his liver.
“Despite this, he continued to inspire those around him with his strength, resilience, and dedication to the community,” Ravagnie said.
The Huntley Fire Protection District said they extend their “deepest condolences” to Larsen’s family, friends and colleagues.
Further details about the services and opportunities to honor Larsen’s memory are expected to be released in the coming days.