Governor Walz Orders Flags at Half-Staff in Honor of Paramedic Troy Boettcher

Governor Tim Walz has ordered all United States flags and Minnesota flags be flown at half-staff at all State and Federal buildings in Minnesota, from sunrise until sunset, on Monday, June 14, 2021, in honor and remembrance of Paramedic Troy Boettcher.

“Troy Boettcher was an outstanding paramedic, who was admired and respected by his colleagues, and served with dignity and pride,” reads the proclamation issued by Governor Walz. “The State of Minnesota recognizes Paramedic Boettcher for his dedicated service to and sacrifice for, his fellow citizens with its deepest gratitude, and all thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends and the entire community.”

Paramedic Boettcher died in the line of duty on Tuesday, June 8, 2021. He dedicated 23 years of exemplary service to the Grand Rapids Meds-1 Ambulance Service and the EMS industry, and is survived by his wife, Amber Boettcher; children, Brandon Boettcher, Megan Boettcher, Liberty Hack; stepchildren Ethan Berglund, Autumn Applebee, Tristan Applebee, and Joseph Applebee; and many nieces, nephews, and other relatives and friends.

At the direction of the Governor, Minnesota flies its flags at half-staff following the death of Minnesota first responders fallen in the line of duty. Individuals, businesses, and other organizations are also encouraged to join in lowering their flags

Obituary

Troy Edward Boettcher, age 51, of Warba, MN passed away Tuesday, June 8, 2021 as a result of injuries sustained in an automobile accident.

Troy was born in 1969 in Morris, Minnesota to Edward and Kathleen Boettcher.  He graduated from Glenwood High School in 1988.  He worked in various fields which included being a mechanic, truck driver, and as a chef prior to attending Mesabi Range Technical College.  Following completing his schooling to be a paramedic, he worked in various communities in Minnesota before settling in Grand Rapids Area five years ago when he started working for Meds-1.  He also was an instructor for Meds-1 Education Department, PALS and ACLS.  On October 3, 2020, he was united in marriage to Amber Applebee.  Troy was an active member of the Warba-Feeley-Sago Volunteer Fire Department.  Troy was an avid auction hunter, fishing, hunting, playing guitar, making people laugh, and most of all spending time with his family.  He was known for his famous “Troy Bear Hugs” that would melt away anything and his back rubs.  Also, Troy started “A Place to Call Home” homeless shelter in Detroit Lakes, MN.

Visitation: IRA Civic Center, 1401 NW 3rd St, Grand Rapids, MN; 11:00 am to 1:00 pm.

Funeral Service: IRA Civic Center, 1401 NW 3rd St, Grand Rapids, MN; 1:00 pm.