Farewell to Quilcene Deputy Chief Moser

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Robert “Moe” Moser was remembered as a dedicated and caring individual, with a sense of humor and a positive attitude toward all, in a community memorial on Feb. 21. Lines of fire vehicles and a large flag flying from the extended ladders of two fire trucks marked the service at Quilcene School.

Moser, who died on Feb. 7, 2015 at the age of 78, was active as Jefferson County Fire District 2 (Quilcene Fire Rescue) deputy chief until he received a diagnosis of lung cancer in October 2014, forcing a medical retirement in November.

“We will be honoring Moe’s service to Quilcene Fire Rescue and to the citizens of not only the Quilcene and Coyle areas, but so many other agencies and lives that Moe had his fingerprints on,” said Eric Brucker at the service.

The memorial included tributes from Jefferson County’s fire service districts and law enforcement, Washington State Firefighters Association, and the U.S. Navy.

“It’s an honor to see so many people here,” said Quilcene Fire Chief Larry Karp. “Moe was larger than life, a friend to all, and willing to help anyone at any time.”

Moser joined the Quilcene Volunteer Fire Department in November 1990, serving as EMT, Emergency Medical Services trainer, EMS chief, deputy chief, interim chief, and chief, as needed. As the senior member of JeffCo Fire Service, Moser’s reach extended far beyond Quilcene, said Karp.

“Moe was a leader, a teacher, a mentor, a communicator, enthusiastic, a dancer, an EMT, a sounding board, a hard worker, and he was trustworthy, loyal and helpful, a father figure and a grandfather figure to many,” said Karp.

Moser was called to service throughout his life, noted Quilcene First Presbyterian Pastor Scott Schaefer. In high school Moser considered becoming a Catholic priest, but realized he could answer his call no matter what his profession.

Moser had three miracles happen in his life, said Schaefer.

The first was Marnie, his wife of 45 years, loving him and giving meaning to his life.

The second was a realization that he was on God’s time after full recovery from a life-threatening accident in 2002, resulting in full commitment to his community.

The third was his ability to treat everyone he encountered as a person, an equal.

“I thank God that I got to know Moe and I hope everyone here feels the same,” concluded Schaefer.

Prior to a slide show, son Robert (Bob) Moser, Jr. shared mental pictures of his father saving his life as an 8-year-old; giddy attending his first Indianapolis 500 auto race; and seeing the admiration, pure love and respect his father showed from his hospital bed when anyone in blue showed up.

“Quite frankly, I didn’t realize I had so many brothers and sisters,” he said. “Education is his memorial. Make yourself better people, better firefighters, and thank you for loving my father.”

An emergency dispatch tape of his final call, a bell ringing ceremony signifying the conclusion of his service, and the Snohomish County Firefighters Pipes and Drums music concluded the ceremony. A potluck followed.

Remembrances for Moe Moser can be in the form of donations to Quilcene Fire Rescue with the notation, "For Moe Moser Memorial Fund."

(Quilcene resident Viviann Kuehl is a volunteer EMT trainee with Quilcene Fire Rescue)