Fred Ross Obituary: Former Calvert City Fire Chief Dies After Decades of Service The Calvert City community is mourning the death of **Fred Ross**, a longtime firefighter and former chief of the Calvert City Volunteer Fire Department who dedicated decades of his life to serving others. Ross died on **September 18, 2026**, according to the Marshall County Emergency Management Agency and local reports. His death has prompted tributes from members of the fire department and people who knew him throughout the community. ### Fred Ross Served Calvert City for Decades Ross moved to Calvert City as a child after being born in Western Pennsylvania. He later served in the **United States Navy during the Vietnam era** before beginning his career with the Calvert City Volunteer Fire Department in 1968. Over the years, Ross moved through the department’s ranks and became its chief in **1994**. He remained in the position until his retirement in 2019, completing approximately **50 years of fire service**. His work extended beyond the local department. Ross served as president of the **Jackson Purchase Firefighters Association** and also worked as a regional director for the Kentucky Firefighters Association. ### Former Fire Chief Remembered in Calvert City Ross played an important role in the history of the Calvert City Fire Department. Historical records indicate that the department had only three chiefs during its first 70 years. He succeeded his father-in-law, **Ed Rendleman**, as chief and was later succeeded by **Timmy Davis**. Beyond his work at emergency scenes, Ross was remembered for the relationships he built with people in the community. The Calvert City Fire Department said his influence reached thousands of people through both his service and personal friendships. ### Fred Ross Family and Legacy Ross was married to **Sherry A. Rendleman**, who died in 2013. The couple had two sons and three grandchildren. His death marks the loss of a longtime public servant whose life was closely connected to the Calvert City fire service. ### Fred Ross Cause of Death and Funeral Arrangements The cause of Fred Ross’s death has not been publicly disclosed in the reports available. Funeral and memorial arrangements had also not been released. Further details are expected to be shared by the family or local authorities when arrangements are finalized.