Bedford Ohio Firefighters, Then and Now

09/03/2025

It's hard to believe it was 40 years ago today that I was sworn-in as a member of the Bedford Fire Department by City Manager Art Dickard. Does Chief Duber look disappointed to you? Shortly after this photo was taken, badge #30 was pinned on my uniform. The newest firefighters are wearing badges whose numbers are in the 80s. Time flies. Enjoy the ride! - Kenny Rybka. Proud member of B.A.R.F (Bedford Association of Retired Firefighters)

07/23/2025

06/09/2025

The department is saddened to learn of the death of former Captain Thomas B. Pirk, who passed away in April. He served from September of 1970 through December of 1982, when he accepted the Fire Chief's position in Beaverceek. The photo shows Captain Pirk in 1981.

05/26/2025

Memorial Day photos from 1968 and 1969.

05/24/2025

I am saddened to announce the passing of retired Bedford Firefighter Chris Neading. Chris started his firefighting journey as a volunteer in Plain Twp (Stark County). He became a full-time fire protection employee at the Veterans' Administration Hospital in Brecksville before joining the BFD in 1988. We were both original members of the Chagrin Southeast Regional Hazmat Response Team. Chris was 65 years old. Rest in Peace, my good friend. - Kenny Rybka

02/11/2025

The BFD was well represented at this month's North-Eastern Ohio Fire Chiefs' Association meeting.
L to R: Jeff Duber, Chief Brian Harting and Kenny Rybka.

01/23/2025

Four new officers were sworn in at the Bedford City Council meeting on Tuesday, January 21st. With the recent retirements of Chief Dave Nagy and Assistant Chief Dan Dopslaf, Brian Harting was sworn in as Chief and Tim Grote as Assistant Chief.

Firefighters Steve Bowser and Mike Scabbo were also sworn in as Lieutenants.

Congratulations to all, from Retired Chief Kenny Rybka.

01/01/2025

Happy New Year, everyone! 144 years ago today, on January 1st, 1881, the Bedford Village Council authorized the formation of a fire department with the passage of Ordinance 15.
A year later, on February 23, 1882, 28 volunteer firefighters were sworn in as the charter members of Bedford Fire Company #1. That name is still proudly displayed on the front of the station that was opened in 2003.

12/05/2024

11/14/2024

Throwback Thursday to January 4, 1999 when Firefighters (L to R) Greg Miller, Kenny Rybka and Dave Nagy were promoted to Lieutenant.

11/13/2024

Please like and follow the official Bedford Fire Department page for up to date news and information. This page will now focus on the department's history, with occasional news regarding former and current members . Thanks.

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61557686237499

To Enhance Life In The Community
By Providing
Protection To The Life And Property
Through
Compassion And Teamwork
While Maintaining Civic Pride