Memorial service held for fallen park ranger

By WDIO

Courtesy of KCC- TV and National Park Services

A memorial service was held Sunday, October 13, for National Park law enforcement park ranger Kevin Grossheim who lost his life during a rescue attempt in Voyageurs National Park on Sunday, October 6. He was 55.

Voyageurs National Park Superintendent Bob DeGross remembered Grossheim at the ceremony held at Falls High School in International Falls, Minnesota.

“Kevin’s unwavering commitment to preserving the beauty of our national parks and safe guarding the visitors, and resources entrusted to his care, is a testament to his character and passion,
said DeGross. “May we find strength in his memory and inspiration in his dedication.”

Chief Ranger Josh Wentz also spoke the ceremony and highlighted Grossheim’s kind nature.

“Kevin was one of the kindest souls I’ve come across,” said Wentz. “His was quite and calming demeanor had a way at putting people at ease.”

Officials say Ranger Grossheim responded to a distress call from park visitors on October 6 near Birch Cove Island. After taking a family of three aboard his National Park Service boat, the vessel overturned amid high winds and rough waters.

The three people were able to reach the shore, but Ranger Grossheim was missing. His body was recovered later Sunday afternoon following a roughly three-hour long search.

Ranger Grossheim served at Voyageurs National Park for more than 20 years.

The Minnesota Fraternal Order of Police has a fundraiser to help the ranger’s family.