Firefighters mourn loss of 19-year veteran firefighter, former Pagosa Springs resident

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By Michael Judge

Farmington Firefighters Local 2850 is saddened to announce the passing of one of its members in the line of duty.

Farmington Fire Lt. Shadd Rohwer was diagnosed with job-related cancer in 2015. He succumbed to his disease on Jan. 11, which was also Rohwer's 19th year anniversary of service with Farmington Fire Department. He was 44 years old.

Rohwer was also a member of the department's Technical Rescue Team, Wildland Team, New Mexico Urban Search and Rescue where he was deployed following Hurricane Katrina and the Surface Water Oil Spill Emergency Response Team (SWOSER). Rohwer was also a Rescue 3 International Instructor and a member the department's Engineer Committee.

Rohwer was known for his positive attitude, his willingness to help his fellow firefighters, strong fortitude, and a deep love of the fire service. He took great pride and passion in serving his community. His sense of humor and his passion for life made him a pleasure to work with. He represents the best of what we all strive to be. Rohwer will be greatly missed by his fellow Farmington Firefighters.

He leaves behind his mother Joan, father Jerry, and brother Tobi, and all of Pagosa Springs. He also leaves behind a very close cousin whom he considered a brother, Ryan Perry who works for Albuquerque Fire Department.

Firefighters from across New Mexico will be congregating at the Albuquerque International Sunport on Sunday, Jan. 14, at 2 p.m. to honor Lt. Shadd Rohwer’s return. A procession will accompany Lt. Shadd Rohwer from Albuquerque to Farmington.