A Firefighter Tribute

Firefighter Tribute In Bronze

A group of citizens from all walks of life came together to pay tribute to all the brave men and women who serve us daily as firefighters through the work of sculptor Nick Klepinger's vision of firefighters in bronze. This larger than life sculpture depicts two firefighters rescuing a toddler from the flames of a burning building. The sculpture stands at the east entrance of the Newton Fire Department below the American flag. It rests amidst a beautifully landscaped courtyard surrounded by personalized brick pavers. 

Firefighter Tribute Committee Members were: Rita Baker, Koni Bunse, Mike Browning, Jean Cleere, Blaine Lefler, Rhonda Loder, Nick Klepinger, Nina Robson, Mike Salyers, Calvin Swank, and Newton Fire Department Chief Jarrod Wellik. A special thanks goes out to the firefighters, the Newton Water Works and Newton Public Works for all their hard work in readying the site on which the tribute sits. 

The Fire Deparment would also like to thank the following businesses and individuals who went above and beyond to make this dedication possible: Advantage Real Estate, Arts Connection, Jim Beerends, Marv Bunse, Community Day, Claseman Sodding, Jean Cleere, Ed Clements, Dodd's Trash Hauling and Recycling, First United Methodist Church, Greg Loder, Hy-Vee, Fareway, Iowa Speedway Foundation, Newton firefighters and EMTs, Todd Hearberlin Enterprises, Jerry Keenan Concrete, Nick and Linda Klepinger, Andy Malsom, McCall Monument, Paver Purchasers, Petro Stop, R&J's Bar and Grill, Renew Newton, Sign Pro, Merle Smith, Smith's Quality Rental, State Fire Marshal Ray Reynolds, Shawn Swank, Taco John's and Wal-Mart.

Brick pavers may still be purchased. If you would like to purchase one, click on the link Brick Paver Contribution Form and return it via email, or forms are available to pick up in the front office of the Newton Fire Department.

About the Artist

Nick Klepinger is an Iowa-born sculptor and award-winning wildlife artist. He has been an active artist/sculptor for over 30 years, and his work is sited throughout our state. Some of his art can be seen in the Iowa Hall of Pride in Des Moines, the Polk County Courthouse, and public places in both Pella and Newton.

Nick enjoys sharing his knowledge of the processes of the lost wax bronze casting method with students of all ages. This labor intensive process has changed little over thousands of years and remains with us today thanks to Nick and other artists willing to share their talent. The time-honored technique of bronze sculpture is an enduring art form that pleases generation after generation.