August 29, 2008

Citizens of Wheat Ridge,

The City of Wheat Ridge has experienced a great loss with the passing of Wheat Ridge Fire District Chief Jim Payne on August 26. On behalf of the City of Wheat Ridge, City Manager Randy Young and I would like to express our condolences to the Payne family and to the members of the Wheat Ridge Fire District. Jim was our friend and an important part of our community. He will be missed.

Serving our community since 1989 when he started out as a volunteer firefighter, Jim rose to the rank of Chief in 2001. Jim always gave more of his time and talents to the community than expected. As Edward F. Croker once said, "When a man becomes a fireman his greatest act of bravery has been accomplished. What he does after that is all in the line of work." This could not be truer for the leadership demonstrated by Jim daily. He took great pride in ensuring the health, safety and welfare of the Wheat Ridge community. Jim's service involved making important decisions, many of which will never be visible to the eyes of the average citizen. To those who had the honor and privilege of working with Jim, his contributions will be everlasting in our minds and hearts.

Jim was a leader in our community who was not afraid to take on tough challenges in order to serve the people with the highest quality of fire service. He will be remembered by the City of Wheat Ridge for his visionary nature and progressive thinking. He committed considerable time to helping reposition the city by serving on the Board of WR2020 and prioritizing city infrastructure needs on the Mayor's D.I.R.T. Task Force. Jim inspired local high school students by sharing his knowledge of firefighting and by participating in community events. He worked with city staff day in and day out to make sure the safety of the community always came first. For those who knew Jim, his passion for public service was contagious and for that he will be long remembered.

In the days ahead, please join the city in expressing your condolences and support to the Payne family and the Wheat Ridge Fire District.

Respectfully,

Jerry DiTullio
Mayor

Randy Young
City Manager