Frederick "Ed" Ulrich

Frederick Edward Ulrich, known to us all as Ed, passed away on January 23, 2026, after a brave battle with Glioblastoma Multiforme (GBM). Of firefighter cancer presumptive disease. Ed was born at United Sates Marine Corps Camp Lejeune, North Carolina on January 25, 1956, to Fred and Elsie Ulrich, Ed's life was defined by service from the very beginning.

After graduating from Kennedy High School in 1973, Ed enlisted in the United States Air Force at just 17 years old. Following his four years of military service, he moved to Kirkland, Washington, to join his family.

In 1977, Ed was hired by the City of Kirkland as Badge #17. He was a trailblazer for the department, serving as the very first LEOFF 2 firefighter hired by the city. Over a career spanning more than 40 years, Ed served as a Firefighter and Lieutenant, and was deeply involved in the Union, Hazmat, and Water Rescue teams. He eventually transitioned to the Fire Bureau, where he finished his legendary career in 2018.

Those who worked with Ed knew him for "Ed's Vocabulary." He had a unique, brilliant way of taking a simple concept and explaining it in a "different language" that was entirely his own. It kept us laughing and kept us thinking. Beneath his unique way of speaking was a man of deep compassion who showed his love for people through his actions on every call.

Even after "retiring" from Kirkland, Ed's passion for service didn't dim. He became the Fire Marshal for Lincoln City, Oregon, where he became a leader in firefighter health and safety. He was a tireless advocate for cancer awareness and ensured his fellow firefighters had the resources they needed to stay safe-a mission that became even more personal during his own health battle.

He began volunteering as a docent at the Air and Space Museum in McMinnville every Tuesday. He loved to take family and friends to the museum stating it was his great big garage that held all his favorite toys.. The best job he never got paid for.

Ed was a man who loved his God, his family, and his brothers and sisters in the fire service. He is survived by his wife of nearly 26 years, Marlea, his nine children (Eddie, Amy, Emily, Lydia, David, Stephen, Andy, Lizzie, and Sue), his step-children, Josh and Jessie. His sister Victoria and her family. And 8 grandkids. And a community that is safer because of his work.

Godspeed, Ed.