By Isaac Nielsen
The Daily Nonpareil
COUNCIL BLUFFS, Iowa — Council Bluffs firefighter and medic Charles Jones died Thursday morning after suffering a medical emergency following his response to a structure fire earlier this week.
Jones had served with the Council Bluffs Fire Department for 19 years, the city and fire department announced Thursday.
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“Charles Jones dedicated 19 years of his life to protecting and serving this community. His loss is heartbreaking for our entire department,” Fire Chief Robert Schoening said in a news release. “We are grateful for his service, his friendship, and the lasting impact he made on those who had the privilege of working alongside him.”
Mayor Jill Shudak said the loss would be felt throughout Council Bluffs.
“The loss of firefighter Charles Jones is heartbreaking for our entire Council Bluffs community,” Shudak said in a release. “Charles dedicated himself to serving and protecting others, answering a calling that requires courage, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to those around him.”
Throughout his career, Jones served the community as a firefighter and medic, and the release says his contributions to Council Bluffs would not be forgotten.
The city extended condolences to Jones’ wife, children, family, friends and fellow firefighters and asked the community to keep them in their thoughts while respecting the family’s privacy.
Information about memorial services and other opportunities for the community to honor Jones will be shared at a later time.
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