Ray Rathka was recently named EMT of the Year in Michigan. (Photo by Mike Mercier)

Ray Rathka, 57, a Lapeer County EMS paramedic, was awarded the highest honor of the Michigan Association of Ambulance Services. The honor means he's considered the year's top life saver in more than 4,000 agencies across the state.

"I was shocked," Rathka said. "I had no idea I'd even been nominated."

He has 17 "saves" in his more than five year career with Lapeer County EMS.

"He is a good employee, who is very deserving," said Lapeer County EMS Executive Director Galland Burnham. "He has more CPR life saves than anyone in our agency."

Rathka's mission to save people is unparalleled, said co-worker Mike White.

"He has a passion to save lives," said Lapeer County EMT Specialist White, who nominated Rathka. "When there's a life to save, he really kicks into high gear. His passion starts when your ticker stops."

Rathka puts his patients first and himself second. A good example of his selflessness occurred more four years ago on Dec. 28, 2003. In the midst of performing CPR on a Lapeer County man, 41, Rathka himself had a heart attack.

"Ray and his patient had to be put in the emergency room," White said. "He insisted that they take his patient before him."

Rathka was previously named an "Everyday Hero," by the American Red Cross for those actions.

"I just really enjoy working with people," Rathka said. "I was employed in the auto industry for 33 years, and I decided to take classes to help people. I just kept on going, and here I am. I couldn't be happier."

Rathka had no idea he had won the highest honor and couldn't be on hand to accept it. It happened to be the first banquet he'd missed in seven years.

"He and his wife are taking care of an older parent, and they'd planned a long deserved vacation," White said. "We felt like the best way to honor him was to give him a break. I accepted the award for him at the April 26 dinner in Grand Rapids. I talked about his honesty and his integrity."

His co-workers will be presenting Rathka with the award at a 10 a.m. Thursday celebration at its Davison Road office. For information, call (810) 664-2927.

Susan Younger may be reached at (810) 664-0811, Ext. 8122 or susan.younger@lapeergroup.com.