News

The National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC) mourns the loss of longtime Board member Philip Sayer. He passed away on December 14 after a long and valiant battle with cancer.

 

"We have lost a truly extraordinary member of the fire service community," said Philip C. Stittleburg, Chairman of the NVFC. "Phil Sayer made a difference not only in his community, but also in his state and across the nation. His service and his memory will live on through the great things he accomplished."

 

Chief Sayer served as a volunteer fire chief for over 40 years, beginning when the Galt (MO) Fire Department was established in 1965. The Department relied solely on various fundraising activities and donations until 1993 when Chief Sayer led an initiative to create a tax-supported district, which passed by an overwhelming majority. The Galt Fire Department then became known as the Galt Fire Protection District.

 

His commitment to the fire service led Chief Sayer to take an active role in numerous local, state, and national emergency service organizations. He was on the Board of Directors of the Firefighters Association of Missouri for over 30 years, served as an instructor for the Missouri Fire and Rescue Training Institute as well as helped develop curriculum, was appointed by late Missouri Governor Carnahan to the Fire Education Commission, served on the Board of the Missouri Association of Fire Districts, was the Missouri statewide Mutual Aid Coordinator and the Missouri Fire and Rescue Regional Coordinator, chaired the Grundy County 911 Board, and was an influential member of the Missouri Fire Service Alliance.

 

Chief Sayer became the NVFC’s Missouri Director in 1979 and rose to become one of the most respected and trusted leaders of the organization. He was elected to the NVFC’s Executive Committee in 1995 and represented the Council on the NFPA 1021 Committee, Standard for Fire Officer Professional Qualifications. In 2003, he received the NVFC Firefighter of the Year Award in honor of his outstanding achievements and distinguished service and dedication to the volunteer fire service.

 

In addition, Chief Sayer was one of the main catalysts in the establishment, construction, and dedication of the Missouri State Firefighters Memorial, which was dedicated in 2002. The Firefighters Association of Missouri recognized his commitment and excellence by awarding him their 2003 Fire Chief of the Year Award.

 

Chief Sayer leaves behind his wife, Roberta, and their children. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorial donations be made to the Firefighters Association of Missouri Memorial Foundation. More information on the Foundation is available at http://ffam.org/memorialfoundation.htm, or send donations to:

 

Fire Fighters Museum Foundation

PO Box 200

Grain Valley, MO 64029