James Earl Krouse

James Earl Krouse, 76, longtime Colfax Fire Chief and lifelong resident of Colfax, passed away Saturday afternoon, August 28, 2021 doing what he loved to do; serving his community. Jim collapsed while fighting a wild fire just on the outskirts of town and was rushed to the Whitman Hospital by his fellow firefighters where he died of an apparent heart attack.

Jim served on the Colfax Fire Department and for Whitman County Fire District #11 for over 52 years. 40 of those years were spent as Chief. He also was a well-known and trusted meat cutter at Rosauer's Supermarket in Colfax for many, many years. His legacy of service to his community is long and distinguished but it's also worth noting how much he loved his family, his God, and his neighbors and friends. Jim was humble and kind.

He leaves behind his wife Elaine, son Daniel and daughter Lynda as well as several grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He also leaves a station full of brothers and sisters in the fire service. A funeral service honoring Jim will be held Friday, September 10th, at 1:00 PM at the First Baptist Church in Colfax with burial following at the Colfax Cemetery.

A full obituary will be published when it becomes available. On-line guest book is at http://www.bruningfuneralhome.com

Bruning Funeral Home of Colfax is caring for the family.