'Beloved' Local Firefighter Dies

HUNTLEY, IL — A longtime and beloved local firefighter has died.

Ken Larsen, who most recently served as a lieutenant at the Huntley Fire Protection District, died on Wednesday. He was a 21.5-year veteran of the fire protection district, beginning with the fire department in May 2022 and retiring last November.

"He was a beloved member of the fire service community and is remembered for his dedication, leadership, and passion for helping others," according to a news release.

Before his time in Huntley, Larsen served as a firefighter/paramedic with the Woodstock
Fire/Rescue District, serving from 1987 through 2008. He was also an active member of the
Lake Geneva Fire Department.

In addition to his fire service roles, Larsen was 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, reflecting his unwavering commitment to learning and leadership in the
fire service.

Larsen retired from the Huntley Fire Protection District late last year to focus on a serious
health issue. Despite this, he continued to inspire those around him with his strength,
resilience, and dedication to the community.

"The Huntley Fire Protection District extends its deepest condolences to Lt. Larsen’s family,
friends, and colleagues during this difficult time," fire officials said in a news release. Further details about the services and opportunities to honor Lt. Larsen’s memory will be shared in the coming days."