REYNOLDSVILLE: The Reynoldsville Fire Department is marking more than three decades of fundraising for the Make-A-Wish Foundation, a tradition that began in 1994 with one firefighter’s determination to serve beyond the call of duty.

That firefighter was Rob Cribbs, a lifelong member of the Reynoldsville Volunteer Fire Company whose commitment to public service shaped both the department and the community it serves. As of 2026, the department has raised more than $68,000 for Make-A-Wish—representing 31 years of continuous effort sparked by Cribbs’ original vision.

The milestone was recently shared in a post on the department’s official Facebook page, accompanied by a photo reflecting the history and heart behind the fundraising tradition. Firefighters say the work has always been about more than totals on a ledger. Over the years, members have met countless “wish families,” moments that continue to remind them why the mission matters.

Cribbs, who passed away in August 2022 at the age of 56, was known throughout Reynoldsville for his deep and steady involvement in community life. A graduate of Jeff Tech’s Class of 1983, he spent much of his working career as a heavy equipment operator at P&N Coal. But it was his volunteerism that defined him to many.

In addition to decades of service with the fire department—where he was a lifelong member and held numerous board positions—Cribbs volunteered directly with Make-A-Wish and supported community efforts such as a special-needs fishing rodeo. He was also active with St. Mary’s Roman Catholic Church and the Fraternal Order of Eagles #540.

Those closest to him described Cribbs as deeply caring and quietly dedicated, traits that carried into every aspect of his life—from faithfully looking after his mother during her years in a nursing home to maintaining close bonds with his nieces and nephews. That same sense of responsibility and compassion was evident in his fire service and charitable work.

What began as one firefighter’s goal to help children facing serious illness has grown into a lasting legacy of service, sustained by generations of Reynoldsville firefighters and supported by the wider community.

Department officials say fundraising for Make-A-Wish will continue this year and into the future, carried forward in honor of Rob Cribbs—a firefighter whose impact is still felt, not only in dollars raised, but in lives touched. 

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