vFIRE TRUCK continued from page 8 the fire department for over 10 years, their family could request that firemen load the casket on a fire truck and deliver it to the grave site free of charge.” In order to get the 1927 fire truck ready for funeral processions, the fire department had to update many of the features on the vehicle and convert the back end of the truck so that it could haul a casket on top of the chemical tanks. The process would involve 15 to 20 people, a totally new paint job, modifications to the chemical tanks, redoing the vinyl roof and upholstery seating, updating the wooden wheel spokes, adding a removable aluminum bed for the casket, replacing the bed of the truck with dimensional oak and updating the sideboards with aluminum sheeting. It would take countless man hours to complete the project. “We had a member who worked on restoring the truck about to pass away and we weren’t finished with the updates to the vehicle,” Tycz said. “When he was getting really bad, we ended up spending three days busting our butts to get it all done in time for his funeral.” Since being converted to haul caskets, the truck has been used in three different funerals. It can easily be switched over to funeral mode with the help of three people in a matter of 15 to 20 minutes. The truck was restored using money from fundraisers and through the donation of time and equipment by many of the Tyndall Fire Department members. “We wanted to do something to honor our fallen members,” Tycz said. “Using the truck to carry our members to their final resting place is the least we can do for their years of service.” vBy Dillon Dwyer, Photos by Ang Byykkonen Bob’s bike was his passion... We made sure his final ride was memorable. Planning in advance creates a funeral service that reflects your loved ones wishes. Celebrations of life as unique as the individual being remembered. Guiding and serving families with compassion and trust. Kevin Opsahl 10vHISVOICEvSEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2017 Funeral Home & Crematory, Yankton Memorial Resource Center, Tyndall Memorial Chapels, Tabor, Menno & Tyndall 665-9679 • 1-800-495-9679 www.opsahl-kostelfuneralhome.com