Governor Walz Orders Flags at Half-Staff in Honor of Fire Captain Brian Lange
Governor Tim Walz has ordered all United States and Minnesota flags to be flown at half-staff at all state buildings in Minnesota, from sunrise until sunset, on Saturday, December 18, 2021, in honor and remembrance of Fire Captain Brian Lange.
“Captain Lange was a dedicated firefighter who was respected by his family, friends, and colleagues,” reads the proclamation issued by Governor Walz. “The State of Minnesota recognizes Captain Lange for his dedicated service to, and sacrifice for, his fellow Minnesotans, and our thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends, and entire community.”
Captain Lange died on Saturday, December 11, 2021, of a medical illness obtained from line of duty service. Captain Lange dedicated 22 years to the Upsala Fire Department and served as Captain for six years. He is survived by his wife of 23 years, Beth; his daughters, Jessica and Brianna; his brother, Greg; and granddaughter, Arya.
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.
Funeral Announcement for Brian Lange
The Upsala Fire Department has announced funeral details for Upsala Fire Captain Brian Lange.
It is with great sadness that we announce the Line of Duty Death of UPSULA Fire Captain BRIAN LANGE, Captain Lange passed away Saturday, December 11, 2021 at St. Gabriel’s Hospital in Little Falls, MN.
Brian David Lange was born on September 26, 1966 to Ralph & Audrey (Stenholm) Lange at North Memorial Hospital, Robbinsdale, MN. He attended school in Upsala where he graduated Valedictorian of the class of 1985. After high school, Brian attended St. Cloud State University majoring in Computer Programming. During that same time, he started a job at Stearns Bank Upsala. In the 14 years at this job he was a teller, loan officer and eventually the bank manager. On May 30, 1998, Brian was united in marriage to Elizabeth (Beth) Heim.
In September 2001 Brian started his job at Woodcraft Industries making cabinet doors. He enjoyed making things with his hands. Together Brian and Beth help raise his niece, Brianna Lange. In January 2004 the union was blessed with a daughter, Jessica. Brian served his community for over 10 years on the city council. He also was a past member of the Upsala First Response, where he played a role in obtaining the rig still currently used today.
Brian was also an active member of the Upsala Fire Department for the past 22 years, serving the last 6 years as a Captain.
Brian was member of St. Mary’s Church in Upsala, over the years he gave of his time on the parish council, as a lector, Eucharistic Minister and choir member.
Left to cherish his memory is his wife of 23 years, Beth; daughter, Jessica (at home); niece/daughter, Brianna (Cooper Scott) of Willmar; brother, Greg; granddaughter, Arya of Willmar.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Ralph & Audrey; infant brothers, Ricky & Gerald; infant sister, Jessica; several aunts & uncles.
The family would like to thank the staff in the ICU at St. Gabriel’s Hospital in Little Falls for their loving care of Brian during his hospitalization up to the day that he left us too soon.
Visitation
Date: Friday, Dec. 17
Time: 4-8 p.m.
Location: St Mary Catholic Church, Upsala
Date: Saturday, Dec. 18
Time: 9:30-10:30 a.m.
Location: St Mary Catholic Church, Upsala
Funeral
Date: Saturday, Dec. 18
Time:10:30 a.m.
Location: St Mary Catholic Church, Upsala
TYPE I: Active LODD
All Minnesota Firefighters are invited to support Captain Lange’s family and the celebration of his life. There will be a Sea of Uniforms at the St Mary’s Church and at the Cemetery.