IN MEMORY OF LOST HEROS
For the PCWRT heroes we’ve lost—your spirit still carries us through every mission
Their Legacy Lives On
The Portage County Water Rescue Team has been built on courage, service, and sacrifice. Some of our bravest heroes are no longer with us, but their legacy lives on in every mission we undertake. We honor the memory of those who gave their time, their strength, and their hearts to PCWRT. Their dedication to protecting others will never be forgotten, and their spirit will forever guide us on the water.
Matthew T. Moulton, (09/11/1978 - 12/04/2020)
Matt was a Captain of the Suffield Fire Department, he served on the department for 23 years. Among Suffield, He was also a member of Rootstown, Ravenna Township and Mogadore fire departments as well as Med-Flight Ohio throughout his 24 years in public safety. In 2001, Matt was an intrical part of helping create and build the Portage County Water Rescue Team, as a pillar member and a dive officer. Matt always had a smile on his face around the water and was willing to jump in and help in any situation. He was a strong diver and officer, his presence is greatly missed.
Matthew G. Butcher, (02/06/1974 - 03/09/2024)
Matt started his service to community and country in the US Marine Corps, following his military service he became a police officer on the Brimfield police department and eventually joined the Kent Police Department, from where he retired in 2023. Matt also had a passion for the (better side) of public safety by obtaining his state firefighter and emt certifications and being part of both the Rootstown Fire department and the Charlestown fire departments for a couple of years. In 2008, Matt wanted to take things even further by joining the PCWRT, by 2009 he had achieved his shore support and swiftwater levels and then went on to get his diver certification. Matt brought great energy and humor to our team but also professionalism. He had an infectious smile and laugh and was always willing to help out and learn new skills. Even though Matt is now gone from this earth, his presence keeps us safe from above in the sky, as our drone is so fittingly named (234), Matt's Kent police unit number.
Robert Abbuhl, (06/05/1981 - 09/24/2025)
Bob was employed with the Louisville City Schools as a mechanic, but his main passions in life were his family and being a firefighter. Bob was a long time member of the Palmyra Township Fire Department and he was also a member of the Edinburg Township Fire Department. He joined the PCWRT in 2015 as a shore support member and boat operator, in 2021 he completed his basic diver certification. Bob was never one for the spotlight but strived to support the team in any way that he could, continually coming to training and call-outs even after his cancer diagnosis. Bob will be remembered for his willingness to help anybody, his keen sense of humor and his quiet laugh.
