Ottawa County, Ohio — June 23, 2025, marks a day that will forever be remembered in the quiet community of Ottawa County. A heartbreaking incident has shaken this tight-knit area, following the tragic death of Jeffrey Kukay, a long-serving and dedicated night-shift employee at the Ottawa County Regional Water Treatment Plant. Jeffrey was discovered deceased inside a water tank, sending shockwaves through the local community, public health officials, and those who relied on his quiet but essential service.
Jeffrey’s sudden passing has prompted an immediate investigation, as well as the issuance of a county-wide boil advisory out of an abundance of caution. Though no foul play is currently suspected, authorities are carefully reviewing the circumstances to determine how such a tragedy occurred. Ensuring public water safety remains a top priority as the investigation unfolds.
Jeffrey Kukay, known to his friends and coworkers as a hardworking, dedicated, and humble individual, had worked at the water treatment plant for several years. He was a familiar face to many, and his colleagues deeply respected him for his professionalism, quiet strength, and unwavering dedication to keeping the community’s most essential resource — clean water — running smoothly. His work, which often went unnoticed by the general public, was critical to the day-to-day functioning of the region. Without people like Jeffrey, the essential infrastructure that ensures clean drinking water would be impossible to maintain.
“Jeff was the kind of guy you could count on,” said a coworker who worked alongside him for many years. “He didn’t seek praise. He just showed up every night, did the hard work, and made sure the rest of us could depend on clean water. He was part of the backbone of this operation. His absence leaves a void that’s hard to fill.”
Jeffrey’s colleagues at the Ottawa County Regional Water Treatment Plant described him as the quiet worker who took pride in his job and never sought recognition. He was known for his punctuality, reliability, and his willingness to help others. Often working long hours in the quiet solitude of the night shift, Jeffrey played a vital role in ensuring that residents in Ottawa County had access to clean, safe drinking water. For those who knew him, his passing is a tragic reminder of the selfless, often unseen work that goes into maintaining essential services.
His sudden and tragic death has left not only his family and friends heartbroken but also his colleagues at the water plant, who are struggling to comprehend how such a loss could have happened. Local officials, including the Ottawa County Health Department and the State EPA, are working closely together to oversee the investigation and ensure that water safety is maintained throughout the investigation process. The community is left with many questions, and the desire for answers is palpable as authorities continue their review.
In the wake of Jeffrey’s death, a precautionary boil advisory was issued for the county’s public water supply, advising residents to boil their water for drinking, cooking, and oral hygiene until further notice. While authorities have emphasized that this is a precautionary measure and that ongoing water quality testing is being conducted, it has nonetheless caused concern among residents who depend on the water treatment plant to provide clean, safe water.
The advisory highlights the importance of public safety during uncertain times, and officials are closely monitoring the water quality to ensure that the public’s health remains protected. The investigation into the circumstances surrounding Jeffrey’s death will continue, with local authorities and the EPA ensuring that all necessary steps are taken to verify the safety of the water supply. In the meantime, community leaders are urging residents to remain patient as the investigation continues and to follow the safety guidelines outlined in the advisory.
Jeffrey Kukay’s death has left a significant impact on his community, but it has also prompted reflection on the quiet heroes who work behind the scenes to ensure public services run smoothly. His life of service, often unnoticed but never unappreciated, is a reminder of the importance of every individual in keeping a community safe and functioning. His colleagues at the plant, who worked alongside him for many years, are remembering his kindness, his humility, and his steadfast commitment to his work.
“It’s hard to imagine the plant without him,” said another coworker. “Jeffrey was part of our team, and now, we’ll be working through this with him in mind. His work was always about the bigger picture, and he was one of those people who made sure things got done — no fanfare, just action.”
The Ottawa County community is now coming together to support Jeffrey’s family and loved ones as they navigate the heart-wrenching grief of losing someone so dedicated and integral to the community. Family members are expressing their sorrow over the tragic loss and are requesting privacy as they process the sudden death of a beloved family member. Despite the pain, they are grateful for the love and support shown by friends, neighbors, and community members who have rallied around them in their time of need.
While answers are still forthcoming, the memory of Jeffrey’s quiet dedication and the positive impact he had on his community will continue to live on. His legacy will be remembered not only for the work he did at the water treatment plant but for the kind, humble person he was—someone who made the world a little bit better simply by doing his job with integrity and care.
As the investigation continues, Ottawa County residents are encouraged to stay informed and remain patient as authorities work to gather all necessary information. The boil advisory, while inconvenient, is a critical precautionary step to protect public health, and local officials are doing everything they can to ensure that the water supply is safe for all.
Jeffrey Kukay’s life of service will not be forgotten. He was more than just an employee; he was a dedicated father, friend, and vital member of the community. The impact of his loss will be felt for years to come, but his legacy will be carried forward by those who knew him and by the work he did to keep the community’s most essential resource safe. In the coming weeks and months, as the investigation continues and the water supply returns to normal, the Ottawa County community will remember Jeffrey’s contributions and the quiet heroism of his service.
Rest in peace, Jeffrey. You were an essential part of your community, and your life of service will never be forgotten.
