A dedicated member of the Northern Ohio FOOLS was laid to rest Wednesday, Apr. 28, 2010.

Royal Chisholm, 58, a captain with the Fairfield, Ohio, Fire Department was at work with the Huron County maintenance department on Friday, Apr. 23, when he complained of mild chest pains. A co-worker took him to the hospital and after approximately 30 minutes in the Emergency Room, he died.

Chisholm was a member of the Northern Ohio FOOLS Honor Guard. The Honor Guard has participated in 31 firefighter funerals, and Chisholm was always present to honor a fallen Brother.

Two weeks prior to his death, Chisholm lost his own brother who was killed after being struck by a vehicle while crossing the street. His brother and brother's wife had been living with Chisholm and his family for more than 5 years.

“Added to this strain,” said Northern Ohio FOOLS member Jamie Starcher, “His wife has MS. She is wheelchair-bound and required his constant care. He would leave work, if needed, to care for her, and was always thinking of her and his brother during any activity. He would call on neighbors to check on them while he was performing his duties as a member of the Northern Ohio FOOLS Honor Guard.”

Chisholm was an important part of the Heavy Rescue 101 training conducted annually that was sponsored by the Northern Ohio FOOLS. Through his efforts, more than 800 firefighters have been trained over the last four years.

He was also the caretaker of the 1947 American LaFrance Engine owned by the Northern Ohio FOOLS. This Engine is considered sacred, as it is used as a funeral truck. Chisholm kept the Engine in his shop, and always had it ready for service. His casket was carried to its final resting place on his favorite truck.

Chisholm joined the Northern Ohio FOOLS in 2006, after the FOOLS Honor Guard performed funeral rites for a member of his department.

“Brother Royal was a true FOOL, never faltering, never giving up,” said Starcher. “He always inspired the rest of us to keep the faith. If he could do it while facing his daily battles, anyone could. He never complained, never refused. We are honored to have known him and shared the Brotherhood with him.”

The funeral ceremony was held at the Huron County Fairgrounds, with interment immediately following at the North Fairfield Cemetery.