Shiawassee County, Michigan Firefighters

On the morning of January 12, 1981, fire destroyed the northwest corner of Main and Park streets including the Oakes Insurance Office and the Gittleman building. On the second floor was the Odd Fellows Hall which was also destroyed.

The fire was believed to have been started by a second-floor tenant, a 33 year old man, who burned some clothes in a metal container to keep warm. He later confessed to police.

Fireman Hodge was located in the center of Park Street about 1/2 block north of Main St. when the east wall collapsed upon him. He was aiming a two and half inch water line at the open windows.

Several lines from all directions had been pouring thousands of gallons of water into the building for at least 4 to 5 hours when the disaster took place.

Elmer's flag-draped casket was taken on the firetruck from the funeral home to the cemetery.