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Loved ones lay to rest Kansas firefighter who died while responding to a fire

Johnny Ivison Jr.
Posted at 1:34 PM, Nov 15, 2020
and last updated 2020-11-15 18:13:14-05

KANSAS CITY, Mo. — Mourners gathered in Tonganoxie, Kansas on Sunday, to remember the life of a firefighter who died while responding to a fire.

Easton Township volunteer firefighterJohnny Ivison Jr. lost his life in a car crash on Nov. 7. He was heading to help with a fire when he crashed on County Road 21 near Shawnee Road.

First responders paid their respects as loved ones said goodbye to the 23-year old at a memorial service at Leavenworth County Fairgrounds.

Several area firefighters also joined in, including those from Lenexa, Kansas City, Kansas and Leavenworth.

"We’re all one big family and anything we can do to help out we’re there for," said Lieutenant Tim Bowlin of the Sherman Township Fire Department.

Bowlin didn't know Ivison personally, but was aware he volunteered his time to protect citizens of Easton. "He was one of those that found the time and he was a great guy."

The U.S. Honor Flag, an American flag that has traveled millions of miles since 9/11, was also transported for today's funeral.

"These men and women run to the danger without any hesitation at all," said Chris Heisler, President and Founder of the Honor Network and the US Honor Flag, "Coming here for Johnny for a firefighter, a young man, we make a commitment with his family."

According to Ivison's obituary, he is survived by his wife, Tiffanee Ivison of Leavenworth, Kansas, two sons, 6-year-old Timothy Lee Ivison and 1-year-old Caleb Deel lvison.