The deputy police chief with the Colcord Police Department died on Thursday, May 19, while working with a neighbor.

Stephen "Steve" Hartman, 74, was cutting firewood in a pasture in Colcord with Herman Bennett when he collapsed.

According to Delaware County Sheriff's Captain Gayle Wells, Bennett immediately began CPR, but but was unable to revive Hartman. Medical personnel on the scene pronounced Hartman dead at approximately 10:12 a.m.

Wells said members of Hartman’s family, as well Colcord Police Chief Kevin Boldra and deputies with the Delaware County Sheriff's Office and emergency medical were on scene.

Hartman had been a member of the Colcord Police Department for the past four years. For a brief time, he served as the interim chief of police. Hartman was also a retired member of the Secret Service.

Colcord Mayor Melissa Earp expressed sadness at the news of Hartman's death.

"Today is a sad day for the Town of Colcord," Earp said in a written statement. "We have lost a fine officer and good friend.

"Steve is an officer that can quite never be replaced. While doing his job he was firm, but fair and always had a friendly, inviting demeanor. He served this town for many years and truly had its best interest at heart. He will always be in our hearts and forever missed."

Delaware County Sheriff Harlan Moore said members of his department would cover their badges with a memorial band in memory of Hartman's service.

"He was very supportive of the sheriff’s office," Moore said. "He covered us on a lot of calls down south.

"He went out of his way many times to help the sheriff’s office on calls that we were involved in."

Delaware County Commissioner Martin Kirk (District 3) echoed Moore's sentiments.

"He seemed to me to be a great guy," Kirk said. "He'll be greatly missed."

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