Some Gave All
Honoring EMS Lives Lost in Service
This page honors EMS professionals who made the ultimate sacrifice while serving Minnesota communities. Their lives reflect the highest ideals of courage, dedication, and service. We remember them not just for how they died—but for how they lived and served.
Andrew Thomas Karels – EMR
Amboy Fire Department, Amboy, MN
EOW: June 2, 2025
Andrew, 34, was a devoted husband, father, veteran, and Medical Officer for the Amboy Fire Department. A lifelong outdoorsman and servant-leader, Andrew found his calling on the farm and in service to others. He earned the Lifesaver Award and was known for hosting EMS trainings across South Central Minnesota. A Sergeant in the Army National Guard, Andrew was known for his joyful spirit, unwavering dedication to his family, and the community he cherished. He died just days before his 35th birthday, leaving behind a legacy of selfless service and a family who adored him.
Tim Stewart – Paramedic
EOW: September 7, 2024
Tim Stewart served with quiet strength and unwavering compassion—as a U.S. Marine, a paramedic with North Memorial Health, and a member of Emergency Management. Known for his calm presence and soft heart, Tim was a trusted teammate and loyal friend, often considered a brother by many. He carried the burdens of service with silent courage, ultimately losing his life to the weight of that sacrifice. Tim is remembered not for how he died, but for how he lived—with honor, kindness, and a deep commitment to helping others.
Tim Linder – Paramedic/Firefighter
EOW: June 5, 2024
After a career spanning multiple EMS and fire departments, Tim Linder quietly served his community with dedication and heart. A loving father of three and a skilled grower turned responder, Tim brought care and compassion to every role he held. Behind his strong exterior, he faced the invisible wounds of PTSD—an unrelenting battle that ultimately claimed his life. Tim is remembered for his warmth, service, and the deep love he had for his family and fellow providers.
Adam Loren Finseth – Paramedic/Firefighter
Burnsville Fire Department, Burnsville, MN
EOW: February 18, 2024
While responding to a domestic disturbance call, Firefighter/Paramedic Adam Finseth was shot and killed in the line of duty. Burnsville Police Officers Paul Elmstrand and Matthew Ruge also lost their lives, and a third officer was injured. A U.S. Army veteran and two-time Iraq tour leader, Adam embodied courage, humility, and unwavering dedication. He balanced a demanding career with deep love for his family, serving with quiet strength and compassion that left a lasting impact on all who knew him.
Michael Erickson – Paramedic
EOW: January 19, 2024
Paramedic Mike Erickson served the Twin Cities for over 30 years with skill, compassion, and an unforgettable sense of humor. A devoted husband, father, and grandfather, Mike brought joy to every room and care to every call. Whether traveling the world or cheering on his beloved Minnesota sports teams, he lived life with heart.
Jesse Borris – Paramedic
EOW: July 30, 2023
Paramedic Jesse Borris served the community for over 20 years with dedication, humor, and heart. Throughout his career with Allina Health, North Memorial Health, and Elk River Fire, he formed lasting friendships and brought joy to his teams. A gifted guitarist, avid Twins fan, and proud member of The Warriors softball team, Jesse was known for his infectious laughter and love of life. His spirit lives on in the memories of those who served beside him and the many lives he touched.
Brian Jon Alnes – EMR
Swanville First Responders, Swanville, MN
EOW: January 4, 2022
Brian, 53, died of COVID-19 contracted in the line of duty. A firefighter, EMR, pastor, CISM program founder, and DNR instructor, Brian was beloved for his faith, humor, and mentorship. His motto: “Have a great day and remember who gave it to you.”
Troy Edward Boettcher – Paramedic
Meds-1 Ambulance Service, Grand Rapids, MN
EOW: June 8, 2021
Troy, 51, died in an ambulance crash. He was a respected paramedic, a fierce advocate for the homeless, and the founder of “A Place to Call Home” shelter. His warmth, hugs, and steady presence were cherished by all who knew him.
Toby Lee Rowan – Paramedic
Mille Lacs Health System, Onamia, MN
EOW: January 7, 2021
Toby, 47, passed away from a medical event while on duty. Known for his preparedness, encouragement, and deep faith, he also served with Cuyuna Regional Medical Center and Fifty Lakes Fire & Rescue. He leaves behind a loving family and a legacy of humble leadership.
Timothy McDonald – Paramedic
North Memorial Air Care, Brainerd, MN
EOW: June 27, 2019
A former Blackhawk pilot and paramedic, Tim served two combat tours in Iraq before fulfilling his dream of flying medevac helicopters. He died in a crash while serving Minnesota patients. Tim was a devoted husband, father, and patriot remembered for his selfless service.
Debra K. Schott – Fight Nurse/EMT
North Memorial Air Care, Brainerd, MN
EOW: June 27, 2019
Deb, a flight nurse, died in a helicopter crash alongside pilot Tim McDonald. Known for her kindness, photography, love of family, and dedication to patients, Deb was admired by colleagues and cherished by her children and grandchildren.
Nicole Van Heel – Paramedic/Firefighter
Gold Cross Ambulance, St. Cloud, MN
EOW: November 25, 2018
Nicole died from complications of a stroke sustained in the line of duty. A paramedic and firefighter, she gave 12 years to serving others. Known for her loyalty and heart, Nicole is remembered for changing lives both professionally and personally.
Marina Challeen – EMT
HealthEast EMS, St. Paul, MN
EOW: October 9, 2017
At just 24, Marina died when her ambulance crashed returning from a patient transport. A future doctor, EMS professional, and Habitat for Humanity volunteer, Marina lived to serve and inspire. She is remembered for her compassion and bright spirit.
Shane Michael Clifton – Paramedic/Firefighter
St. Paul Fire Department, St. Paul, MN
EOW: August 31, 2015
Shane, a paramedic/firefighter, suffered cardiac arrest during his shift at Station 14. A respected responder, his sudden passing was felt deeply by his crew and community. He was 38.
Ryan M. Sorek – Paramedic
Hennepin County Medical Center EMS, Minneapolis, MN
EOW: March 9, 2007
A UCLA pre-med student turned paramedic, Ryan was deeply committed to patient care and continuing education. After a difficult shift, he passed away unexpectedly from myocarditis linked to an on-duty exposure. He is survived by his wife and young daughter.
Terry Lee Pearson – EMT
Roseau Area Hospital Ambulance, Roseau, MN
EOW: January 4, 2005
Terry died when his ambulance collided with a garbage truck on icy roads. A volunteer EMT since 2001, he was known for teaching CPR and for his Golden Stork Award. His service was honored with flags at half-staff and a powerful turnout from local responders.
James K. Blanchard – Paramedic
Hennepin County Medical Center EMS, Minneapolis, MN
EOW: December 11, 2002
Known as “Big Jim,” Blanchard was a 21-year paramedic remembered for his compassion, mentorship, and dedication. He suffered cardiac arrest while tending to a critical patient, only seeking care after safely delivering them to the hospital. Beyond EMS, he led efforts to support injured or ill responders. His towering stature matched his gentle heart.
Brenda G. Hage – EMT
Hinckley Ambulance Service, Hinckley, MN
EOW: January 14, 1999
Brenda, a volunteer EMT, was struck while assisting at a crash scene—on her daughter’s 11th birthday. Dedicated, community-minded, and deeply kind, Brenda helped with health fairs and local events. Her legacy lives on in a scholarship and a rose bearing her name on the ambulance she once rode.
Mark W. Peters – EMT
Lake City Ambulance Service, Lake City, MN
EOW: November 9, 1995
Mark was killed in an ambulance crash while responding to a call. A Coast Guard veteran, city council member, and longtime volunteer EMT, Mark was deeply invested in his hometown. He left behind a wife, two children, and a city forever shaped by his service.
Carol Kay Wolf – EMT
Granada First Responders, Granada, MN
EOW: November 13, 1992
Carol died while stopping to help at a crash on her day off. A dedicated EMT, community volunteer, and fudge-baking mom, she embodied service in every facet of her life. Her family remembers her life not with sorrow, but with pride and gratitude.
Nelson Schaefer – Paramedic
Hennepin County Medical Center EMS, Minneapolis, MN
EOW: January 14, 1985
Nelson was part of Hennepin County’s first paramedic training class. He loved BBQ, storytelling, and simple joys. He died after suffering a heart attack on duty and was remembered as a man who found meaning in both service and everyday life.
Dale Eidsvig – EMT
Hennepin County Medical Center EMS, Minneapolis, MN
EOW: October 29, 1972
A Navy veteran and beloved family man, Dale was killed when an ambulance was struck en route to a call. Known for his optimism and storytelling, he was the first Hennepin County EMT to die in the line of duty. He left behind a wife, three children, and a legacy of joyful service.