SEBRING — The Sebring Fire Association’s annual festival will posthumously honor Richard Springer as parade marshal today. The parade steps off at 6:30 p.m., forming at Sebring High School on Indiana Avenue.

Springer, a 35-year-member of the Sebring Fire Department, served as assistant chief for 10 years. He died on Aug. 5, 2016, at age 60.

Retired Sebring fire Chief and longtime family friend Jim Cannell will drive Springer’s widow, Laurie Springer, along with their grandchildren, Evan, Karli, Jack and Luke, in the parade.

Springer was dedicated to his hometown and supported local sports teams, school activities and civic organizations. He was the owner / operator of Sebring Tire / Springer’s Towing, a business that was started by his father and mother, Donald and Norma Springer. That business is now owned and operated by his son, Mike Springer, who is now the Sebring fire chief.

Springer set an example of serving others to his family; both his sons, Mike and Matt, have served as firefighters for many years along with their wives who have supported the department. He was also a member of the Mahoning Fire Chiefs Association.

He was a graduate of Sebring High School and attended Pine Lake Christian Church. Springer was a member of the Sebring Lions Club, Sebring Masonic Lodge, Alliance Shrine, Tadmor Shrine, Royal Order Court Jesters, served as the President of the Transportation Board and was a member of the Alliance Go-Jo’s. For many years, Springer rode with the Go-Jo Unit in the Sebring parade along with other area parades. He was a 32-year member of the Shriners, and was in charge of the Alliance Transportation Unit that helped provide rides to medical treatment for children in need.

The festival features amusement rides, games and concessions. It continues through Saturday featuring a bike show 5 to 11 p.m. Proceeds go toward the Sebring Fire Association.