March 4, 2022 – Flagler County Fire Rescue on March 19 will memorialize the life of volunteer firefighter John R. Keppler Jr. – 20 years after his death – with a dedication ceremony at the training tower on Justice Lane. The facility, which has always been referenced in descriptive terms, will be named for Keppler.
“This is a wonderful thing to be able to do for his family,” said Fire Rescue Chief Michael Tucker. “It is a pleasure to honor a man who devoted his life to firefighting.”
Keppler at the age of 54 responded to his last call on March 21, 2002. He joined the St John’s Park Volunteer Fire Department in 1993 after moving to Flagler County from Pennsylvania. Keppler earned the rank of captain while here.
He was born into the family firefighting tradition. Since 1860, every man in the Keppler family has joined the profession, including his sons – John R. Keppler III, who still serves for Flagler County, and Andrew J. Keppler, who retired in 2021 after 28 years.
The ceremony will be held at 10:30 a.m. March 19 at the soon-to-be John R. Keppler Jr. Fire Training Center, 655 Justice Lane, Bunnell.
Andrew Keppler will represent the family. Coastal Florida Police and Fire Pipes and Drums will perform.
“The name Keppler is synonymous with firefighting in Flagler County,” Tucker said. “They have positively impacted the lives of Flagler County residents, and that legacy will continue on with the naming of this training center.”
Media Release: Flagler County. Julie Murphy, MPIO
