MADISON, Wis. (WMTV) - Wisconsin’s longest-serving volunteer fire chief has died, leaving behind quite the legacy in his small hometown.

Donald Ritchie, who served as the fire chief of the Cobb-Eden Fire Department for 51 years, died last week at the age of 91.

Ritchie was more than just a fire chief for the people of Cobb—he was a village president, a member of the village board, a father, a grandfather, and an inspiration.

“He talked to people, twisted their arm, knocked on their doors to say, you know, we need first responders,” Donnie’s son Ronald told our Sam Swartz.

Donnie was instrumental in the creation of the Cobb First Responders, making sure his community always had people ready to help.

He was known for supporting local businesses and dedicating his time and heart to the p

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