The Epworth Fire Department offers condolences to the family of retired Captain Jim Kean who passed away Saturday, January 1st, 2022, at the age of 84. Jim served on the Epworth Fire Department for 35 years from 1962-1998. He was promoted to Lieutenant in 1979 and to Captain in 1998 - a position he held until his retirement. Jim also served as the Vice-President of the Epworth Community Volunteer Firemen in 1979. Jim was among the many volunteer firefighters who spent countless hours to build the old fire station in the early seventies. Jim had a passion for emergency medical service and instructed CPR for many years reaching thousands of students throughout his career. He was among the first Epworth Firefighters certified as an EMT and followed up by taking the first EMT-Intermediate class when the department moved to the advanced level. When the department decided to become a paramedic level service in 1988, Jim was again one of the first to volunteer to attend the class along with seven other members of the department. He was a dedicated volunteer who responded to many calls in the 35 years he served. He was called upon well into his retirement for spiritual guidance for fire department members and their loved ones. He will be dearly missed by his family, friends, firefighters and neighbors. Thank you for your service and may you rest in peace Deacon Jim.