Nikole Babb
nbabb@cherryroad.com
Butler County Emergency Medical Services announced on Friday afternoon that they had suffered the loss of an incredibly loved Paramedic and team member, Justin Lauppe.
Lauppe passed away while serving the Butler County community on May 16, 2025. He was a 16-year veteran of emergency medical services and law enforcement, serving Winfield, Sedgwick and Butler County, and even El Dorado Parks and Recreation. He joined Butler County EMS three and a half years ago where he quickly became a close family member to everyone he knew from the local hospital staff, law enforcement officers and his own team at Butler County EMS.
Lauppe was on the job responding to an emergency medical call on Thursday when he collapsed and was taken to a nearby hospital.
“Justin, a dedicated 14 year veteran of emergency medical services, experienced cardiac arrest and lost his life during an emergency call, exemplifying the courage and selflessness that defined his career,” said Butler County EMS in a press release. “Paramedic Justin Lauppe was a pillar of our team, known for his unwavering commitment to saving lives and compassionate care. His loss is deeply felt by colleagues, friends, and the countless individuals he served in Butler County. We are heartbroken by the loss of Justin, whose dedication to our community was truly extraordinary. His sacrifice reminds us of the risks our first responders face every day. We honor his legacy by continuing to serve with the same passion and bravery he embodied. Butler County EMS is providing support to Justin’s family and colleagues during this difficult time. The circumstances of his passing was medical in nature, and further details will be shared as appropriate.”
As his last mark left on this earth, Lauppe was a registered organ donor and was escorted to Kansas City for procurement. A dignified send off was organized as he was transferred to Kansas City from Kansas Medical Center in Andover. The hospital was lined with hospital staff and first responders who were touched by Lauppe’s work and friendship, as well as turnpike overpasses.
As Lauppe was received on Saturday morning around 10:30am, the streets of El Dorado were lined to receive him to the funeral home. Butler County EMS, Butler County Sheriff’s Office, El Dorado Police Department, El Dorado Fire Department, the American Legion, friends and family honored him as he was taken into the funeral home and a soft post is ordered over him until he is ready to be laid to rest.
In order to assist with acquired medical bills and funeral expenses that his wife and young daughter take on, a Go Fund Me has been started. Donate online by visiting the website, https://gofund.me/d8063a3c.
A memorial and funeral service for Lauppe has been organized and scheduled for Thursday, May 22 in Park City. A public viewing will be held from 11:30am-1pm followed by funeral services at 1pm. All services will be held at Park City Arena located at 8151 North Hartman Arena Dr. A procession and graveside services are to be announced.
“We are heartbroken by the loss of Justin,” said Stuart Funk, Public Outreach Coordinator for Butler County EMS. “He represented the very best of us. His legacy will continue to inspire and guide our department and community.”
Butler County EMS and Rescue said they welcome the participation of visiting honor guards, pipes, and drums to join them in paying tribute to Lauppe. They expressed the importance of solidarity and support from brothers and sisters in emergency response during this difficult time. If you are planning to attend and honor Lauppe, you can contact them in advance to coordinate the details. Additionally, if your department would like to send an apparatus to be part of the procession following the memorial service please notify them via email: butleremshonorguard@gmail.com
UPDATE 05/20/2025 8:44am: This article has been updated to reflect memorial service time and location.
