Elkhart Fire Department mourns unexpected loss of Captain

ELKHART, Ind. -- The Elkhart Fire Department is mourning the loss of one of their own.

Captain Adam "Pugsley" Kuspa died unexpectedly Monday morning at the age of 41.

Heartfelt tributes poured in on social media, and the Elkhart Fire Department let the greater community know they've lost a hero with a traditional tribute; a firetruck parked outside the central station draped in black ribbon.

"He was just a firefighter through and through, every day, whether he was on duty or not," says Elkhart Fire Chief, Rodney Dale. "That's just who he was."

Kuspa spent just about half his life serving the Elkhart community on the fire department; 19 years.

"He loved being a firefighter," says Chief Dale. "He was into the technology as things were changing. For lack of a better term, I've been in the position of ordering stuff before I was in this position of Chief, and he would almost get on my nerves. He would always see something new, and he wanted to try it or give it a shot."

Kuspa wore many hats within the department, serving on the Tactical Rescue Team, Water Rescue Team, and Honor Guard.

Just weeks ago, he was promoted to Captain.

"It was just a really exciting time for him," Chief Dale says.

Most that knew Captain Kuspa were taught by him.

He was a well-known instructor to many young, up and coming firefighter rookies in the entire Michiana community.

"He always had profound advice to lend to anybody who was struggling," says Corey Brewer, newly elected President of the IAFF Local 338. "Whether it was with a skill or something maybe bigger picture, he always had something very helpful to say."

Brewer says Kuspa's legacy will live on in the example he has set for his fellow brothers and sisters.

"All of us are brother and sisters," says Brewer. "When something happens to one of us, it's like somebody from your own family."

Captain Kuspa will be remembered as a man who lived for firefighting.

"He was a great representation of this career, of this profession," says Chief Dale.

Elkhart Mayor Rod Roberson also acknowledging Captain Kuspa's service Monday, saying in part quote:

"Captain Kuspa embodied the true spirit of public service and heroism as a member of the Elkhart Fire Department, and for that our community will be eternally grateful."

Chief Rodney Dale says service details will be shared once they're available.