The Odenton Volunteer Fire Company mourns the sudden passing of member Dustin Hontz on November 14, 2023, at the age of 27.
Dustin joined the OVFC as a teenager in high school, not long after his family home was destroyed in a fire. He seemed to find his life’s calling during his training as an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT), and he quickly became one of the company’s top responders on Ambulance 289.
Dustin’s passion for Emergency Medical Services led him to a paid job as an EMT, and later to his work as a Communication Operator for the Maryland Institute for Emergency Medical Services Systems (MIEMSS) and as a part time Hospital Liaison and Public Information Officer with Howard County Department of Fire & Rescue Services. At the MIEMSS Emergency Medical Resource Center (EMRC) Dustin was the voice on the radio that responded to EMTs and paramedics across the State of Maryland when they called for assistance. Dustin was extremely proud of his volunteer and paid work and was almost always found in gear from one of Maryland’s EMS organizations.
Dustin willingly gave up countless hours of his time training and mentoring Odenton volunteers on their own journey to become EMTs and serve the community. He was also a dedicated supporter of the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation and the Tunnel to Towers Foundation, participating in dozens of 9/11 Memorial Stair Climbs to raise money for the families of firefighters lost on duty.
Dustin was a constant presence at the station and OVFC events and he was always the first to make newcomers feel welcome and share his EMS knowledge. As we move forward and continue to serve the community that Dustin loved and called home, we will honor him by continuing to share his passion and knowledge.
Dustin received the Anne Arundel County Volunteer Firefighter’s Association Firefighter/ EMT/ Administrative member of the Quarter award in October 2019.
