Kerry Koen, Beloved Husband, Father, Grandfather, Former Fire Chief of Delray Beach and Boca Raton
Kerry Koen, dedicated public servant and former Fire Chief of both Delray Beach and Boca Raton, passed away peacefully on April 11, 2025.
Born May 22, 1944, in Herrin, Illinois. He moved to Florida with his parents in 1955.
Beginning his firefighting career in Boca Raton, Kerry worked his way through the ranks to the rank of Fire Marshall where he helped pioneer the establishment of the EMS and Paramedic programs in the late 60’s and early 70’s. From Boca he went to the Memphis Fire Department where he worked in administration.
In December 1985, Kerry returned to Florida when he was appointed Chief of the Delray Beach Fire Department. During his tenure, he oversaw significant improvements to facilities including several new fire stations and a new Fire Department Headquarters on Atlantic Avenue. Under his leadership, the department achieved a higher rating from the Insurance Services Office an acknowledgement of the department’s progress under Chief Koen’s leadership. In 1992 Chief Koen established a contract to provide fire services to the Town of Highland Beach.
In 1994, Koen accepted the position of Fire Chief in Boca Raton, where he continued his commitment to public safety.
He developed the Smart Heart Program while in Boca. He was instrumental in the establishment of pre-hospital care programs and hospital transport for both the Delray and Boca Departments during his career. He returned to Delray Beach as Chief in 2001. His influence and legacy are blended between the two cities he loved.
Recently, the City of Boca Raton recently issued a proclamation honoring Mr. Koen with “Kerry Koen Day.”
As a chief, Kerry Koen was known as an innovator and a popular leader. He took pride in getting to know the men and women who worked for him and was prized as a mentor and friend. He leaves an enormous legacy in the fire service. Kerry was beloved by his firefighters who trusted his steady leadership especially during times of strife. He mentored more than a generation of firefighters, elected officials and civic leaders.
Following his retirement from firefighting, Koen returned to his first passion of photography. At age 75, he showcased his talent with an exhibit titled "Autumn in New England" at the Boca Raton Public Library, featuring scenes from Maine, Vermont, and New Hampshire. His sunrise photographs of Boca Raton beaches were even featured on the city's website.
Kerry was a dedicated husband, father, grandfather, and friend. He is survived by his loving wife, Lynne; daughter, Patricia; grandson, David; and son-in-law Michael.
Kerry was a man of faith who was dedicated to his church family and his community. He was a member diaconate and served a term as chairman.
Kerry Koen's legacy of service and commitment to safety has had a lasting impact on the communities he served. He will be remembered for his professional leadership, community contributions, and artistic and civic vision.
A Funeral Service will be held on Wednesday, April 23, 2025, at North Creek Presbyterian Church located at 4601 NW 71st Place, Coconut Creek, Florida 33073. Visitation will begin at 10:00am followed by the Funeral Service at 11:00am. A reception will follow the service at the church. Burial will be at Memorial Park Cemetery in Memphis, TN on Saturday, May 3, 2025, at 11:00am.
Donations may be made to North Creek Presbyterian Church in lieu of flowers.
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