On August 24, 2025, Ruben Gonzalez Romero was actively involved in fire suppression on the Bivens Creek Fire, when he suffered a cardiac emergency. Rapid medical assistance was rendered from a line paramedic; however, resuscitation attempts were unsuccessful.
Firefighters transported Romero from the fire area to Whitehall, Mont. and the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation provided an ongoing consistent 24-hour honor watch until he could begin his journey home, in accordance with his family’s wishes. The procession for Romero’s departure from Whitehall will occur on Monday. September 1 at 12:00 p.m. to facilitate the necessary travel itinerary to Romero’s family in Mexico.Firefighting vehicles and engines are honored to pay respects to Romero as he departs.
The procession will be travelling from Whitehall to Interstate 90. In Whitehall, public viewing of the procession can occur safely from sidewalks and side streets. Please allow the procession to travel smoothly to the Interstate by remaining stationary as a spectator.
With over 20 years of experience as a wildland firefighter and sawyer, Romero brought significant experience, wisdom, and mentorship to the fire line and the people with whom he worked. He was known for his humor, unfaltering stamina, modesty, and love for his family.
The incident personnel and incident management team are grateful for Romero’s contributions to the Bivens Creek firefighting effort, as well as his many years of service as a wildland firefighter across the United States. We deeply appreciate his dedication to his profession and to the communities threatened by wildland fire. The wildland firefighting community feels this loss profoundly and will hold Romero in their hearts and memories.
Source: US Forest Service
