On Friday, April 7, the Burtonsville Volunteer Fire Department suffered the tragic, unexpected loss of Firefighter Charles ‘Rick’ Gentilcore while on duty at fire station 15. DFRS and BVFD personnel immediately initiated all possible means of emergency care, however resuscitation efforts were unsuccessful.

A fire service honor guard assembled at Holy Cross where his escort to Baltimore OCME included all BVFD apparatus. The station has been draped with black bunting and the flags lowered to half-staff.

Rick joined the BVFD on March 7, 1994 and achieved the rank of Firefighter III. He was very active for many years. Rick was a Top Responder in 2000, responding to over 300 calls.

Many will remember his antics in the annual “Burtonsville Bowl” football fiasco and his mischievous personality. Rick’s dedication to the BVFD continued even after being hired by the County as a firefighter. He continued to volunteer when he was able, maintaining relationships with those whom he had worked, and was thankful when he was assigned back to Station 15.

We ask that everyone keep Virginia, Todd, and the entire Gentilcore family in your thoughts and prayers.

Donations in Lieu of Flowers

In lieu of flowers, the Gentilcore family suggests that memorial contributions may be made to the Burtonsville Volunteer Fire Department. Information on donating online or off can be found here.

Rick in Photos

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Master Firefighter Rick Gentilcore was remembered and honored by about 100 “Muddy Angels” as part of the National EMS Memorial Bike Ride. The Glen Echo Fire Department (Station 11) hosted the riders yesterday afternoon at a special stop during the ride from Boston to Arlington (500 miles).

While at the GEFD, they honored Rick in a moving ceremony. Rick’s wife, Virg Gentilcore, was there to receive tags from the riders who had been carrying his name. Virg spoke at the event. BVFD personnel stood with Virg, in recognizing Rick. Ambulance 715 was present with Captain O’neal Johnson and FF Winston.

For more info about the ride, go to: www.muddyangels.com

 

Heroes, Inc. held the second annual May Day Event at The Filmore in Silver Spring.  The event honored the most recent fallen Montgomery County heroes, Police Officer Noah Leotta and Master Firefighter Rick Gentilcore.   The Montgomery County Pipes and Drums performed as a slide show tribute to Rick was displayed.