John Martin Fugman

John M. Fugman, 55, of Ashland, took flight with the wings of an angel on May 9, 2026, after a long, hard-fought battle with cancer. He is survived by his wife of 19 years, Tina, their two kitties, Lily and Lady Jane, and his in-laws, Angela and Joseph Warro Jr.

John had quite a few interests and loves in life, including EMS, Firefighting, Boy Scouts, Fencing, and working for the Virginia Department of Fire Programs.

He worked for VDFP for 25 years and was known for having a strong work ethic, reliability, and dedication. He created programs, was an instructor, worked in various departments, implementing many new programs and procedures, and rose to Division Chief. He loved what he did and put 100% into his duties, tasks, and responsibilities. His work in creating the inventory control systems became the foundation for the logistical support today. Chief Fugman was later promoted to be the Division 2 Chief before transferring to his last role with the agency as Division 1 Chief. John played a role in course and test development, reaccreditation support, and the development of specifications for vehicles, trailers, and fire equipment to support the agency's mission. He also served as the program manager for ARFF, Firefighter I & II, Course Coordinator, Water Rescue, EVOC, Hazardous Materials Program, Motorsports Program, Fire Attack Series, and Compliance Officer. Additionally, throughout his time with the agency, he routinely staffed the ESF-4 desk during EOC activations. He also served as a member of the Central Virginia Incident Management Team.

Over the decades, he was a member of Forest Ambulance Service, Southside Virginia Emergency Crew, Namozine Volunteer Fire & EMS Company 4 in Dinwiddie, Jefferson Park Company 5 in Prince George's, and Hanover Courthouse Volunteer Fire Department Station 5. John was also a Certified Rescue Diver, Master Mason, and accomplished Fencer (foil, epee, etc., not stolen goods).

John had been involved in Boy Scouts for over 30 years. First as a member, then as an instructor, leader, friend, and mentor. He was a Cub Scout, Eagle Scout, Vigil Member of the Order of the Arrow, Silver Beaver, Merit Badge Counselor, Assistant Scoutmaster, Troop Committee Member, James River District Member-at-Large, Assistant District Commissioner Nawakwa Lodge, Health Services Advisor, Wood Badge Assistant, Quartermaster, Wood Badge Troop Guide, NYLT Assistant Course Director (3x), NYLT Course Director (2x), NYLT Mentor, CST15 NYLT CDC Staff, Council Risk Management Committee, NCAP Chairperson, Council

Commodore and Assistant Council Commissioner for Commissioner College.

How 'bout them Cowboys?!

Friends are invited to John's visitation at Nelsen Funeral Home, 412 S. Washington Highway, Ashland, Virginia, on Wednesday, May 27, 2026, from 11 AM until the time of the Remembrance Service at 1 PM in the Chapel.

Come as you are (casual attire), but wear clothing! In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Hanover Crew Foundation, Boy Scouts, or Richmond SPCA.