Libertyville firefighter dies after fighting grass fire

LIBERTYVILLE – A Libertyville Firefighter died last week, a couple of days after he responded to a grass fire.

Brian Edward Shanstrom, 56, of Libertyville, died on Thursday, March 3 at his home. According to a news release from Libertyville Fire and Rescue, Shanstrom died in the line of duty after fighting a grass fire on Tuesday, March 1.

“It is with great sadness that Libertyville Fire and Rescue announces the line of duty death of Firefighter Brian Edward Shanstrom,” said Libertyville Fire Chief Gerrad Goodrich. “Firefighter Shanstrom was a dedicated member of the Libertyville Fire Department for nearly 40 years. His tragic and unexpected passing reminds us of the dangers we all face as brothers and sisters in the emergency services family.”

Goodrich said Shanstrom had a lot of knowledge about fighting fires, and everyone on the department learned a thing or two from him.

“Brian was someone that would drop what he was doing to help out in any way he could,” Goodrich said. “He could build and fix just about anything.”

Goodrich recalled how Shanstrom had a passion for firefighting and tractor pulling.

“He will be missed by many,” Goodrich said.

Visitation will be held at Behner Funeral Home in Fairfield from 6-8 p.m. Wednesday, with a funeral service at 11 a.m. Thursday.

Libertyville Fire and Rescue is assisting Shanstrom’s family and affected emergency services personnel.

“Please keep Firefighter Shanstrom’s family, and the men and women of our department, in your thoughts and prayers,” read the news release from Libertyville Fire and Rescue.

The City of Fairfield offered its condolences to Shanstrom’s friends and co-workers, too. In a post on the City of Fairfield Facebook page, the City wrote, “Thank you Firefighter Shanstrom for your service to the City of Libertyville and the surrounding areas. Mutual aid goes both ways, so we thank you for your nearly 40 years of service to the community of Fairfield as well.”

Call Andy Hallman at 641-575-0135 or email him at andy.hallman@southeastiowaunion.com