Chief Gene Roeder, 82, of Springfield, Ohio, died Wednesday morning, July 2, 2003, in Mercy Medical Center. Chief Roeder was a member of Springfield Township #2 Garden Acres Fire Department for 49 years, serving as Chief for 45 years.
He was a long time member of Ohio Fire Chiefs Association, was Past President of the Clark County Firefighters Association and was instrumental in forming the first Junior Firefighters program in Ohio.
He introduced the fire service to his son John who now serves as assistant chief to the department. John in turn introduced the fire service to his two sons, Steve a Lieutenant with the department and Adam who serves as a firefighter. They all share the passion that he exemplified during his distinguished service.
Chief Roeder was a man of principle who capably and effectively led in providing this vital service to the residents he served. He will be greatly missed by his family, fire department personnel and resident
