The Ames Fire Department lost not only a fire fighter on March 17, but also an avid bike rider and proud kilt wearer who was described by all who knew him as one of the warmest and selfless people they ever knew. Ames emergency personnel and other community members joined the friends and family of the recently deceased firefighter, Steve Buser, in honoring his life. Firefighters, police officers and others stood with hands to their head, saluting as Buser's loved ones made their way to the 3 p.m. service at the Ames City Hall's auditorium. The sound of a bagpipe filled the space.
This and a kilt belonging to Buser displayed on the stage represented Buser's Irish heritage.