Spirit EMS

09/02/2026

Spirit Emergency Medical Services invites former patients, fellow first responders, healthcare providers, educators, coworkers, friends, and community members whose lives Karl Kleinekathoefer touched to join us in honoring his life and service. Karl's commitment to patient care, emergency medicine, community education, and helping others left a lasting impact both locally and abroad.

A visitation will be held from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, September 5, 2026, at the John and Iris Hathaway Education and Community Center on the Spirit EMS campus at 5484 State Route 49 South, Greenville, Ohio. A funeral service with full EMS honors will follow at 10:00 a.m., officiated by Pastor Janie Detling.

Following the service, a formal procession will travel from the John and Iris Hathaway Education and Community Center to Tribute Funeral Homes in Greenville. The procession will provide family, friends, coworkers, and members of the public with an opportunity to pay their final respects before Karl begins his final journey home. From
Greenville, arrangements will be made to return Karl to Australia, where formal burial services will be conducted in his home country.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions supporting community First Aid, CPR, and AED education programs, as well as the Spirit EMS Summer EMT Boot Camp for high school students, may be made to the Spirit EMS Community Fund, 5484 State Route 49 South, Greenville, OH 45331.

Spirit EMS extends its sincere appreciation to the community for its overwhelming support and asks that you keep Karl's family in your thoughts during this difficult time.

09/02/2026

Service/Procession information:

It is with profound sadness that we share the line of duty death of our colleague and friend, Karl Kleinekathoefer, who passed away unexpectedly on August 29, 2026, while doing the work he loved.
Karl served as a Paramedic and Critical Care Paramedic with Spirit EMS and was deeply committed to caring for others. His compassion, dedication, and service to the EMS profession touched countless lives and will leave a lasting impact on our organization and community.
Visitation services will be held on Saturday, September 5, 2026, from 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM at the John and Iris Hathaway Education and Community Center, located on the Spirit EMS campus at 5484 State Route 49, Greenville, Ohio.
A funeral service with full EMS honors will immediately follow at 10:00 AM, officiated by Pastor Janie Detling.
Following the funeral services, there will be an EMS procession from Spirit EMS to Tribute Funeral Home. Anyone interested in participating in the procession should contact Brian R. Brown, Chief of Outreach & Engagement, Spirit EMS, at [email protected] or 937-564-2752.
We thank everyone for their support as we honor Karl's life, service, and dedication to our profession.

08/31/2026

Countless family members, friends, coworkers, first responders, church members, and community supporters gathered Sunday to honor the life and legacy of Spirit EMS Paramedic Karl Kleinekathoefer during a procession and candlelight vigil in Greenville.

Karl unexpectedly passed away while on duty on August 29, 2026, at Spirit EMS headquarters. Sunday's events focused on celebrating his life, service, and the profound impact he had on those around him.

Earlier in the afternoon, Spirit EMS crews traveled to the Montgomery County Coroner's Office and led a solemn procession back to Tribute Funeral Home in Greenville, where preparations are underway for funeral services. Numerous fire, EMS, and law enforcement agencies from throughout the area joined the procession in a visible demonstration of support for Karl, his family, and Spirit EMS.

"The outpouring of support from our public safety partners has been truly humbling," said Brian K. Hathaway, President/CEO of Spirit EMS. "Seeing so many agencies come together to honor Karl demonstrates the tremendous impact he had on those around him. It reminds us that the public safety community is one family that stands together during both celebrations and tragedies."

Following the procession, attendees gathered for a candlelight vigil on the back patio of the John and Iris Hathaway Education and Community Center. Reverent Church Lead Pastor Jeff Harper led the ceremony, offering prayers, words of encouragement, and reflections on Karl's life of service and faith.

Throughout the evening, Karl's parents and fiancée shared heartfelt memories, while members of the Spirit EMS family, the Reverent Church congregation, and even former patients reflected on the compassion and kindness Karl showed throughout his life. The stories highlighted a man known for his dedication to helping others, his commitment to excellence, and his ability to positively impact everyone he encountered.

Spirit EMS also expressed gratitude to Union City Fire & EMS, Greenville Township Rescue, and Kettering Mobile Care for providing emergency coverage assistance during the vigil, allowing Spirit personnel to participate in the tribute while maintaining emergency medical services throughout the region.

A special memorial display featured the ambulance Karl regularly worked with, with white roses placed on the cot as a symbol of his service and dedication to the profession he loved.

Reflecting on the evening, Hathaway noted that the ceremony marked the first event held on the patio of the education center and carried personal significance for many in attendance.

"At Spirit, our motto has always been 'Our Family, Taking Care of Your Family,' Hathaway said. "Karl embodied those values every day. His legacy reminds us that what makes Spirit EMS strong is not just what we do, but how deeply we care for each other and the families we serve. That commitment will continue to guide us as we honor those we have lost, carry their memories forward, and serve our communities with the same dedication and love Karl exemplified every day."

Originally from Mandalong, New South Wales, Australia, Karl joined Spirit EMS in November 2023. He was widely respected for his dedication to patient care and commitment to lifelong learning. Outside of EMS, he faithfully served as the Sunday morning organist at Reverent Church, sharing his musical talents and faith with the congregation.

Spirit EMS is continuing to work closely with Karl's family and funeral service providers to finalize arrangements. Funeral arrangements, which will include full EMS honors, will be announced later this week after additional family members arrive from Australia.

Spirit EMS extends its sincere appreciation to everyone who participated in Sunday's procession and candlelight vigil, sent messages of support, or assisted during this difficult time. The overwhelming response from the community serves as a testament to Karl's extraordinary life and the lasting impact he made throughout the region.

08/30/2026

🕯️ Candlelight Vigil in Memory of Karl 🕯️

Please join us as we gather to honor and remember Karl on what would have been his 35th birthday.

Together, we will celebrate his life, share memories, and reflect on the impact he made on all who knew and loved him.

📅 Sunday, August 30, 2026
🕔 5:00 p.m.
📍 5484 State Route 49 South, Greenville, Ohio

As we light our candles, we will remember Karl's spirit, his kindness, and the many cherished moments he brought into our lives and the lives of those he so deeply cared for as a Paramedic. Family, friends, and all who wish to pay their respects are welcome to join us.

Though he is deeply missed, his memory lives on in our hearts and in the lives he touched.

Forever remembered. Forever loved. ❤️

08/29/2026

It is with heavy hearts and great sadness that Spirit EMS announces the unexpected passing of Paramedic Karl Kleinekathoefer, who died while on duty on August 29, 2026, at 5:41 a.m. at the Spirit EMS headquarters, located at 5484 State Route 49 South, Greenville, Ohio 45331.

Karl, 34, had been employed with Spirit EMS since November 23, 2023, and was a valued member of the organization and the communities he faithfully served throughout Western Ohio and Eastern Indiana.

Originally from Mandalong, New South Wales, Australia, Karl dedicated his life to emergency medical services and continually sought opportunities to expand his knowledge and skills. Before relocating to the United States, he earned a bachelor’s degree in paramedicine, which laid the foundation for an accomplished career in emergency medical services. Throughout his career, he advanced through the ranks as a Critical Care Paramedic, became a CPR Instructor, and most recently completed coursework in Community Paramedicine. His passion for helping others, commitment to lifelong learning, and dedication to excellence in patient care left a lasting impact on his patients, coworkers, and the communities he served throughout Western Ohio and Eastern Indiana.

Outside of EMS, Karl was a talented musician who served as the Sunday morning organist at Reverent Church in Greenville, where he shared his musical gifts and faith with the congregation each week.

Shortly before 5:30 a.m. this morning, Karl was found unresponsive and not breathing in a bunk room at Spirit EMS headquarters. Spirit EMS personnel immediately initiated lifesaving measures. Greenville Township Rescue, the Greenville City Fire Department, Darke County Sheriff's Office deputies, and the Greenville Police Department provided additional assistance. The Darke County Coroner's Office and the Greenville Police Department are investigating the incident. Currently, the death is believed to be from natural causes. Karl was subsequently transported by Spirit EMS to the Montgomery County Coroner's Office, where an autopsy will be conducted to determine the official cause of death.

Karl was 34 years old and would have celebrated his 35th birthday on August 30, 2026.

"Today, the Spirit EMS family suffered a heartbreaking loss. Karl was more than a paramedic; he was a compassionate caregiver, dedicated public servant, talented musician, and trusted friend. His devotion to serving others was evident in every aspect of his life, whether caring for patients, assisting fellow providers, or serving his church and community. Karl's impact on our organization and the people we serve will never be forgotten. On behalf of the entire Spirit EMS family, we extend our deepest condolences to Karl's family, friends, coworkers, and loved ones in both the United States and Australia. We ask that everyone keep them in their thoughts and prayers during this difficult time,” said Brian K. Hathaway, President/CEO, Spirit EMS.

Spirit EMS requests that the privacy of Karl's family, friends, and coworkers be respected as they mourn this tremendous loss. Additional information will be released as appropriate after the investigation is complete.

08/27/2026

🚑 Elevate Your Impact as an EMS Leader!

This year’s OAMTA Annual Conference will feature a special one-day Shift Dynamics workshop designed specifically for EMS field supervisors, operations managers, and emerging leaders.

This certificate program focuses on the real-world challenges of frontline EMS leadership—from managing shift performance and team dynamics to building a stronger workplace culture and developing the next generation of EMS leaders.

📅 September 10, 2026
⏰ 9:00 AM–5:00 PM
📍 Cherry Valley Hotel | Newark, Ohio

Participants who complete the workshop will earn a Shift Dynamics program completion certificate and leave with practical skills they can take back to their teams and organizations.

Whether you currently serve in a leadership role or are preparing to take that next step, this is an opportunity you won’t want to miss!

Register for the OAMTA Annual Conference today:
🔗 https://www.oamta.net/about-1-1

08/20/2026

We’re packed up and heading back to Cambridge City!

Thanks to the incredible generosity of the Greenville community and Spirit EMS, our ambulance is filled with much-needed supplies for those affected by the devastating flooding.

Spirit EMS was able to provide more than 400 N95 masks to help protect residents and volunteers as they work through the cleanup. We also donated over 100 instant ice packs for the first-aid station at Cambridge City Christian Church—an item the fellow EMS professional staffing the station yesterday told us was greatly needed.

But one of the most touching parts of this effort came after our management team returned home and shared what they had witnessed with their families. Two of our little ones, Riley and Carson, were especially concerned that so many children had lost all of their toys.

When Brian Hathaway heard about their concern, he told them Spirit had a barn full of brand-new stuffed animals and that we could spare a few hundred for the children who had lost so much. Riley and Carson immediately put on their work boots and got to work, helping load the remaining space in the ambulance with toys to bring some comfort and smiles to children during an incredibly difficult time.

After witnessing the heartbreaking loss in Cambridge City, we are incredibly grateful to be in a position to help. Our thoughts and prayers remain with everyone affected by the flooding, and we sincerely thank the Greenville community for its overwhelming generosity and support.

This is what it means to be neighbors helping neighbors—and family taking care of family. ❤️

05/27/2026

Miss ya Chief! Hope you’re keeping em line up there. Hard to believe it’s been a year already.

It is with heavy hearts that Spirit EMS announces the passing of a lifelong friend to the first responder community, Chief Doug Wright. He fought a courageous battle with cancer while continuing to serve his community. Doug will be greatly missed, but the many fond memories we have of him will live on.

In his retirement, Doug continued to work as a van driver for Spirit EMS, showing exceptional dedication even while battling cancer. He worked right up until the past several weeks, demonstrating his unwavering commitment to helping others.

Doug dedicated many years to the Union City, Ohio Fire Department, serving a significant portion of that time as Chief. He then continued his service at the Liberty Township Fire Department, where he held the position of Assistant Chief. Most recently, Doug served in an interim role as Chief of the Jefferson Township Fire Department in Montgomery County.

As further details regarding funeral arrangements become available, we will keep all our Spirit EMS friends informed. Please keep the entire Wright family in your thoughts and prayers. In the famous words of Doug, “You be good now.”

05/25/2026

What an incredible day at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway!
We are truly grateful for the opportunity to be part of such an unforgettable experience alongside our partners at AMR/GMR. The partnership between Spirit EMS and this outstanding team continues to open doors and create moments that go far beyond expectations.

A special thank you to Amy McKenney, Randy Stozek, Shane Smith, Mike Stozek, and so many other exceptional leaders who welcomed us with such sincere hospitality. Your dedication, thoughtfulness, and attention to every detail did not go unnoticed. Randy, your knowledge and passion made the experience even more meaningful—truly phenomenal.

Throughout the day, it was clear how much heart goes into what you do. From meaningful conversations to once-in-a-lifetime moments, everything reflected a deep commitment to people and purpose. Watching our family and guests experience these opportunities—including unforgettable encounters like meeting astronaut Jeremy Hansen—was nothing short of special.

Even beyond the track, the day brought unexpected blessings and connections that remind us how powerful this partnership truly is. These are the moments that stay with you.

As we head into race day today, we will also take time to remember Robert “Bob” Miller and honor his many contributions over the years. His legacy of service and leadership continues to inspire so many within the EMS community.

Thank you again to everyone who made today so meaningful. We’re looking forward to another great day—and as always, the Spirit team is ready to jump in like a well-rehearsed pit crew if needed.