A Detroit firefighter has died several days after suffering a medical emergency at a fire station.
The Detroit Press reports that city firefighter Michael Lubig died late Monday night after falling ill at a west side fire station last Thursday at the end of a 24-hour shift. The second-generation firefighter was working a detail as acting sergeant for Squad 4.
Lubig and his crew responded to three fires and one medical run before the incident, and colleagues performed life-saving measures before he was transported to Henry Ford Hospital, where he remained in critical condition until passing away.
Detroit Fire Fighter Association President Mike Nevin said Lubig was affectionately referred to by friends as "little buddy."
"He was a small guy in stature, but his heart was as big as anyone's. He was always smiling," Nevin said. "He was a lover of life, more than anything."
Lubig, a married father of four, joined the department in 1999 and was seemingly tin good health, according to the Detroit Press. He was involved in martial arts and an avid runner who just last month had participated in a half-marathon.
"Rest in peace my love," Lubig's wife Lisa wrote in a Facebook post. "You were my life, my love, my hero. I don't know how to live life without you. Our DFD family is here for us, as well as all of our family from far and wide ... Nothing can compare to the love, comfort and support they have given and I know will continue to give. I hope you can rest easier knowing they are taking care of us."
Detroit Fire Commissioner Eric Jones announced Friday that visitation for Lubig will be held Monday from 4:00-9:00 p.m. at the James Cole Funeral Home before a funeral service at 11:00 a.m. Tuesday at Cathedral of the Most Blessed Sacrament.
