In Loving Memory of Paramedic Bob Klein (1965–2026)
The emergency medical services community mourns the loss of one of its most dedicated and inspiring members. Paramedic Bob Klein, a steadfast pillar of EMS for nearly four decades, passed away peacefully on February 9th, 2026, at Sanford Medical Center Fargo, surrounded by his loving family and friends. Bob’s life was a testament to selfless service, unwavering commitment, and the profound impact one person can have on countless lives.
Born in Langdon, North Dakota, Bob’s journey toward a career in emergency medical services was inspired at an early age by the television show Emergency!, igniting a lifelong passion to help those in need. This early spark grew into action when, in 1987, Bob earned his EMT certification and began volunteering locally, quickly earning the respect of colleagues and community members alike.
In 1995, Bob took the next step in his EMS career by obtaining his paramedic license. Balancing his demanding role with his family’s farming operation, Bob embodied dedication, resilience, and the quiet determination that would define his professional life. His leadership was first recognized in Langdon, where he directed the Langdon Ambulance Service with integrity and vision, ensuring high-quality care and mentoring the next generation of EMS professionals.
In 2006, Bob transitioned to a full-time role with F M Ambulance in Fargo, where his influence expanded exponentially. As a Liaison Coordinator and later Lead Educator, he played an instrumental role in training countless first responders and paramedic students, imparting not only skills but also a deep sense of compassion and professionalism. Bob’s approach to EMS education emphasized both excellence and humanity, leaving a lasting legacy in the Fargo community and beyond.
Bob’s dedication did not go unnoticed. Among his many honors, he received the F M Ambulance Achievement in Excellence Award, was named North Dakota EMS Instructor of the Year in 2008, and in 2014 was awarded the prestigious American Ambulance Association Star of Life award, recognizing his extraordinary commitment to saving lives and improving the EMS profession.
Outside of his professional accomplishments, Bob found joy in simpler pleasures. His passion for mechanics and vehicle restoration was a lifelong hobby, reflecting his hands-on nature and his meticulous attention to detail—qualities that carried over into his work and relationships alike. Friends and family remember Bob not only as a consummate professional but also as a kind, generous, and warm-hearted man whose laughter and wisdom brightened every room.
Bob Klein’s passing leaves a profound void in the lives of his colleagues, students, and community members. Yet his legacy will endure through the countless lives he touched, the knowledge he imparted, and the example of service he embodied every day. His compassion, dedication, and unwavering commitment to helping others will continue to inspire future generations of paramedics and first responders.
Bob is survived by his beloved family, friends, and a community that will forever honor his memory. As we grieve his loss, we also celebrate a life defined by courage, dedication, and an enduring spirit of service. The EMS community—and all whose lives he touched—will carry forward his legacy, striving to mirror the compassion, skill, and heart that made Bob Klein a true star in the field of emergency medicine.
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