Kent Firefighter James Lutz, 33

KENT - Firefighter James Lutz was a living paradox. Instead of settling for the limitations brought on by Lou Gehrig's disease, he leapt beyond them. In doing so, Mr. Lutz showed family and friends the power of human will.

As they remembered Mr. Lutz, it is this determination against the stifling effects of illness that will accent their memories of him.

Mr. Lutz, 33, died Tuesday of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, a condition commonly known as Lou Gehrig's disease, which attacks the nervous system.

His ashes were to be scattered today near a memorial erected in his name at Fire Station 75.

Mr. Lutz continued working for the Kent Fire Department throughout his two-year struggle with the disease. When he was no longer capable of fighting fires, he did clerical work at the station.

Among those at Mr. Lutz's side when he died was Kent Fire Chief Norm Angelo, who said last year's Firefighter of the Year always conducted himself with class and enthusiasm. "He was a very aggressive firefighter," Angelo said. "These guys go beyond what is called for, and he was in that mode."

Among survivors are his wife, Paula; sons, Philip and Justin, and his mother, Anna Lutz of Kent.