FNN Article © Tuesday, April 28, 2026. Image provided. (click on image to enlarge).
MILLERTON, PA – Big Elm Volunteer Fire Department is raising funds to honor fallen brother at this year’s National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Weekend in Maryland.
Normally, the fire department would be collecting donations for needed tools, turnout gear, rescue/EMS equipment, or fire suppression tools. However, this year has been different for the members of Big Elm.
According to the fire department, 2025-2026 has been a somber time for Big Elm. Many may recall that back on Thursday, January 23, 2025, Rescue Captain Roger Lathrop succumbed to a cardiac event responding to a structure fire in Mainesburg, PA. Throughout this year Big Elm Fire Department has been fundraising for dress uniforms, travel and lodging expenses for their members to be able to travel out to the National Fire Academy in Emmitsburg, Maryland on May 1-3 for the 2026 National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Weekend https://weekend.firehero.org/ to honor their fallen brother, Roger Lathrop along with all other firefights lost in the United States in 2025.
Insight on who Roger Lathrop, was – Roger Lathrop, a man defined by his wholehearted commitment to others, passed away unexpectedly on January 23, 2025, doing what he loved—serving his community as a volunteer firefighter.
Roger’s passion for emergency service began with the South Creek Fire Department as a senior in high school, when he obtained his EMT certification at the age of 18. This marked the beginning of his devotion to emergency medical services. Most recently, Roger was a valued member of the Big Elm Volunteer Fire Department in Millerton, Pennsylvania. He held the rank of rescue captain and served as a firefighter and EMT. His dedication to the department reflected his nature, and he died following a medical emergency while responding to a structure fire.
Professionally, Roger was an accomplished healthcare leader. He had worked for The Guthrie Clinic since 1997, starting as a respiratory therapist before advancing to roles including clinical instructor in the School of Respiratory Therapy, system director of care management, corporate compliance officer, and assistant vice president and chief compliance officer. His passion for education and living a life of service led him to earn a master’s degree in crisis/emergency/disaster management from Elmira College in addition to two professional degrees from Mansfield University.
Beyond his fire service, Roger was a pillar of his community. He was an avid supporter of the Troy School District Music and Athletic Departments. He served popcorn with a side of humor for Troy booster concessions. He gave his time generously to young athletes, serving as a coach and umpire for the Troy and Wells-Jackson Little Leagues and Troy Legion baseball team.
Above all, Roger was a devoted family man. He is survived by his wife of 30 years, Ginger (Wright) Lathrop; their three children, Grace (Nicholas) Call, Ryder Lathrop (Ciara Pine), and Gabby Lathrop; and Rachel Hickok, whom he loved as a daughter. He was the heart of the Lathrop and Wright families, providing a constant source of love, humor, support, and unwavering strength.
Roger carried his heart on his sleeve and cared for everyone he met. A former colleague noted that Roger always made them feel “valued and seen, never as a bother or rushed.” His presence in the community was cherished. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him. Roger is forever honored for his service as a firefighter, EMT, and medical captain. His life is a lasting testament to dedication, selflessness, and the profound power of a kind heart.
But as for you, brethren, do not grow weary in doing good. 2 Thess. 3:13
Members of the Big Elm Fire Department will be standing alongside both Roger’s family and the entire fire-service family, as always, and especially this weekend. Please help the department remember and pay tribute to Roger, Rogers family all those that have given the ultimate for their communities. To assist simply click on the provided link – Roger R. Lathrop – National Fallen Firefighters Foundation https://www.firehero.org/fallen-firefighter/roger-r-lathrop/
Sincerely,
Otto H Bean IV, President Big Elm Volunteer Fire Department
