City Mourns Loss of Fire Chief Michael E. McDermed

The Atchison community mourns the loss of former Fire Chief, Michael E. McDermed, who passed away after a courageous battle with brain cancer on Thursday, March30, 2017. Chief McDermed served the Atchison community for 45 years, serving the last 35 years as Fire Chief. He retired from the Fire Department in June 2016 due to his on-going health concerns.

In his time at the Fire Department, Chief McDermed was a diligent public servant for the Atchison community and cultivated many friendships during his 45-year tenure. “Mike was an exceptional leader and devoted public servant” said Mayor Allen Reavis. This level of commitment to public service is becoming harder to find; however, he never hesitated to serve.

He always thought things out and tried to do what was best for the public and his firefighters. I really appreciated him when he served as the interim City Manager and handled some challenging situations. He will be missed as a mentor and role model”, Reavis said.

The funeral service to honor and celebrate Chief McDermed’s life will be held on Wednesday, April 5, 2017 at 2:00 p.m. at the Atchison Event Center. City Hall will be closed that afternoon to allow all City personnel to attend the service. The family has requested that attendees wear Hawaiian or bright colored clothes at the celebration of his life.