A 60-year-old New York firefighter/safety officer has died in his sleep of an apparent cardiac issue after responding to a technical rescue hours before.
According to the United States Fire Administration (USFA), Robert A. Fitch, a member of the East Herkimer Volunteer Fire Department, had responded to a rescue call involving a person who became stuck on some cliffs after attempting to rescue a pet. After the call, which was initially reported at 4:11 p.m. on Nov. 27, Fitch returned home and overnight on Nov. 28, succumbed in his sleep to a cardiac-related injury.
A statement from the fire department reads: “It is with deepest regrets we announce the passing of Firefighter Robert Fitch. Robert served as a volunteer firefighter of the East Herkimer Fire Department for 7 years. At the time of his death, he was our Safety Officer. Robert also held previous positions in the department; Vice President and Board of Directors. Robert passed away on November 28, 2017, after responding to a rescue call the night before on November 27, 2017.”
The department statement continues: “Robert was a man who gave freely and generously of his time to those in need. Robert will be sadly missed by his brothers and sisters of the East Herkimer Fire Department and all those who were fortunate enough to have known him.”
The family will be receiving relatives and friends on Friday Dec. 1, 2017 from 3 – 6 p.m. at the New Life Church, 337 Protection Ave., Herkimer, NY. A memorial service will follow at 6:00 p.m. at the New Life Church with Pastor David Hayner officiating. Burial will be private and held at the convenience of the family.
All memorial contributions may be made to either Herkimer County Habitat for Humanity, PO Box 148, Herkimer, NY 13350 or to the East Herkimer Volunteer Fire Department, 193 Main Road, PO Box 95, Herkimer, NY 13350
