BUCYRUS, OH (CRAWFORD COUNTY NOW)—After 28 years of dedicated service, Captain Ryan Sparks is hanging up his helmet at the Bucyrus Fire Department, officially retiring on Friday, November 14, 2025.
Sparks began his career in March 1997, quickly earning the respect of his colleagues for his strong work ethic, compassion, and calm presence under pressure. Over the years, he rose through the ranks — promoted to lieutenant in May of 2014, and to captain February of 2017.
Throughout his career, Sparks wore many hats. He led the department’s Inspection Bureau for several years and served as president of the Bucyrus Fire Department Benefit Fund for roughly two decades — a role that reflected his deep commitment to supporting his fellow firefighters.
“Ryan is a very hard worker — he’ll do whatever is asked of him and quite possibly is the kindest person,” said one colleague. “No matter who he was helping, he treated everyone like he was on the call with his mom. Even when people weren’t kind, Ryan would just say, ‘They’re probably having a bad day.’ You can’t find a guy kinder.”
That kindness extended beyond emergency calls. Around the station, Sparks was known for his sense of humor, his willingness to help anyone, and his dedication to fitness. “He never missed a workout, even when he wasn’t feeling his best,” one firefighter recalled with a laugh. “That was so he could eat pizza on Friday nights.”
Sparks also went out of his way to connect with the community. Whether it was showing children the fire trucks, giving tours of the station, or sharing stories from years of service, he was always eager to represent the department with pride.
“Ryan truly embodied what it means to be a public servant,” said another team member. “He took that to heart — he was there to serve others, no matter the circumstance.”
As the department prepares to celebrate his retirement on Friday evening, those who worked alongside him say his presence will be deeply missed.
“Ryan will be missed,” said department historian Barry Hershler. “He’s always welcome back to use the workout room — all our retirees are. We’ve had a lot of fun through the years, plenty of shenanigans and sports talk. He’ll always be part of this family.”
Captain Ryan Sparks leaves behind a legacy of kindness, service, and genuine care for others — a reflection of nearly three decades spent protecting and uplifting the Bucyrus community.
