Louisville EMS mourns the 'unexpected passing' of 1 of its paramedics

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- A Louisville paramedic recently died unexpectedly, city officials announced Wednesday.

In a Facebook post Wednesday afternoon, Louisville Metro Emergency Services announced the "unexpected passing" of Don Scheer, a "tenured Paramedic who dedicated decades of his life to the residents of Louisville."

"Please keep Don’s family, friends and colleagues in your prayers and support them today and in the coming difficult days," Louisville EMS said.

Scheer was a beloved member of Louisville's fleet of first responders. Condolences poured in Wednesday from the Jefferson County Professional Firefighters, Mount Washington Fire Protection District andAnchorage Middletown Fire & EMS.I

In a 2022 Facebook post from Louisville EMS, Scheer wrote why he loved being in the field:

"What I love most about LMEMS is-we're truly family. I began my career as a firefighter in 1993, then an EMT, and eventually a Paramedic. I came to LMEMS in 2005 and, wow, how the time has flown by. After all these years I still love coming to work every day, and being able to interact with the public, and above all make a difference in their lives on what typically is their worst day. I would say my favorite events are the Pegasus parade and doing PR where we can interact with the children and see their faces when they get to play on the ambulance and learn what we do for the public.

I have battled health issues for several years now and the way my coworkers/family step up every time to show their love and support just further proves how this is more then just a place to work. I have the fortune of working with an amazing partner and alongside some of the best professionals in the business!

I have done a lot in my career, from fire, ems, air medical, haz-mat...the list goes on...but never have I felt such love and respect from the people I work with. I've made lifelong relationships working here and am grateful for every day I get to serve this community. I look forward to the years ahead on this amazing journey. Don, thank you for your service and this awesome account of your journey!"