19-18-502. Refund of firefighter's contribution. A firefighter is entitled to a refund, in a lump sum and without interest, of all monthly contributions to the fund, within 60 days after permanent separation from service in the fire department, except for separation by reason of retirement, death, or disability that would otherwise qualify the firefighter or the firefighter's surviving spouse or children to receive benefits or an allowance from the association. A firefighter who is eligible to receive a partial service pension under 19-18-603 may either elect to take the refund provided for in this section or elect to receive the partial pension.