One cannot imagine answering a call for help, arriving at the scene, and finding your own partner the one you were called to help. Suddenly you realize this will be the last time you will ride in this ambulance together. One could call it cruel if you did not have such wonderful memories to look back on at a life well lived.<br />
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Ryan P. Ostendorf, 28, was killed in the line of duty on December 5, 2005. Ryan was driving to his EMS duty station to pull his shift when he was struck head-on by another vehicle. The station where he volunteered was called to respond to the accident.<br />
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Mr. Ostendorf worked for American Medical Response located in Topeka, Kansas. He was a volunteer paramedic with the agency for five years. Ryan was attending Kansas University. After graduation he planned to enter medical school to fulfill his dream of becoming a physician.<br />
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"He was an outstanding paramedic who had the trust and confidence of the local physicians, management, staff and employees," said Captain Steve Giryle. "He was an extraordinary individual. He was highly motivated and dedicated to helping others as a paramedic," said Giryle.<br />
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Honored 2006 |