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The Manhattan Fire District has announced the death of Madelyn Renee Ronaldson, a member of the Manhattan Chapter, on December 21, 2024. The district described her passing as a loss felt "with heavy hearts."
In an official statement, the Manhattan Fire District said, "Her strength, courage and beautiful spirit have left an indelible mark on all of us. Madelyn, you will always be loved and will remain an inspiration. Rest peacefully, sweet girl."
According to her obituary, Madelyn was 14 years old and resided in Manhattan Village. She passed away on December 18, 2024, at Lurie Children’s Hospital in Chicago. Madelyn attended several local schools including Wilson Creek Elementary and Anna McDonald Grade School. She was involved with the Manhattan Fire Buddies alongside her sister Mollie. The obituary notes that "Madelyn loved all things Disney, especially Frozen," and cherished spending time with her siblings and Jesus. It further describes her as "a joyful person who lit up the room with her smile; she was kind and gentle."
The Manhattan Fire Protection District also paid tribute to Madelyn through a Facebook post. They organized a Project Fire Buddies walkthrough in her honor and remembered her as "a cherished member of the Manhattan Chapter family and an inspiration to everyone who had the honor of knowing her."
