NORWALK, Iowa — The Norwalk Fire Department along with several agencies across the metro are mourning the loss of one of their own.

Doug Richardson died of a medical emergency while off duty this week. He was 46-years-old.

Flags are flying at half-staff outside Norwalk Fire Department to honor Richardson who passed away unexpectedly Tuesday.

On Wednesday, first responders escorted his body from the Medical Examiner’s office in Ankeny to Hamilton’s Funeral Home in downtown Des Moines.

Back at the fire station reminders of him are everywhere, but the reality is settling in that this captain, firefighter, and paramedic is gone.

“You know we say that the fire service is a brotherhood or sisterhood but that’s really true,” Norwalk Fire Chief Jenn Porter said. “Doug was a friend of ours. Doug was a friend to everyone. I’m not sure that he knew a stranger. So it’s a loss to the entire community.”

Richardson called Norwalk home. It’s where he grew up, graduated, and learned he wanted to spend his life helping people.

“So, he may have gotten his career start as a cadet with Des Moines Police, but he’s been here with Norwalk Fire Department for over 25 years,” Chief Porter said.

Richardson served in many different public safety roles across the metro including dispatcher, reserve police officer, and most recently the public safety manager for Des Moines Public Schools.

He was public servant who knew his stuff and liked to talk.

“Doug was just a really good storyteller,” Chief Porter said. “And it didn’t matter what he was talking about, he was going to make you laugh. And I think that’s what we’re all going to miss about him the most.”

A longtime first responder who will forever be remembered for not only what he did, but who he was.

“I think what’s most important through all of this is we do honor him, honor his service, and give him everything he deserves as we’re making these arrangements,” Chief Porter said.

Funeral plans are still pending, but Chief Porter expects it to be well attended due to Richardson’s involvement in several different departments.

Richardson had a lot of titles, but his favorite was dad. He leaves behind a daughter and son.

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