Proceeds from Francis and Annola Schweitzberger’s donated farm helped build a modern facility with upgraded apparatus and safety features

KINGSLEY, Iowa — Kingsley has opened a new fire and EMS building, replacing a cramped facility that limited ambulance access and operations, thanks to a couple who left the proceeds from the sale of their farm to the first responders.

Francis and Annola Schweitzberger spent their lives in Kingsley and were devoted to the community. When they passed away in 2001 and 2010, they left their farm to benefit local public safety, KTIV reported.

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Per their will, the proceeds from the farm’s sale were directed to the Kingsley Fire Department and Kingsley Ambulance Service, which together include 51 volunteer firefighters and EMTs. After more than a decade, that gift has now been put to work, funding the community’s new fire and EMS building.

Backed by local support and the Schweitzberger bequest, Kingsley’s fire and EMS now operate from a state-of-the-art station with several new rigs.

The upgraded apparatus adds pump and water capacity, plus enhanced safety features for crews. The departments moved in early October and opened the doors to the community the first week of November, thanking residents for their strong support.

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