On Jan. 23, James R. Holbein II, of Waynesburg, tried to save his grandson and his home, but he was overtaken by smoke inhalation and died a day later Aultman Hospital.
Sandy Township Fire Department was called out to the Holbein's home on Iroquois Street at about 10 p.m. Fire departments from Waynesburg and Magnolia assisted. Although the fire was mainly in the bedroom of Holbein's 10-year-old grandson, the smoke and heat damage destroyed the interior of the house.
Sandy Township Fire Chief Dan Barnes reported the home had $40,000 in damages, and the contents had at least $15,000 in losses.
Chief Barnes said Quad Ambulance transported Holbein to the hospital. His grandson was not injured and did not need medical care.
Holbein, 61, was a life resident of the area and a US Army veteran.
Holbein lost his wife, Ruth, on Nov. 28.
Services are set for today, Thursday, at 6 p.m., in the Sanctuary Church of God, with Pastor Steve Stewart officiating.
Churches in the area have taken donations to help Holbein's family and for funeral expenses.
Chief Barnes said the cause of the fire is still being investigated, but it is thought that an accident at the home started the fire.
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