KIMBALL TOWNSHIP, Mich.-- A volunteer firefighter died on New Year's Day not long after responding to his fire department for a call.
Donald Paterson, 65, responded to the company after it was dispatched for wires down across the road.
Since he didn't make the call, he stayed behind at the fire house for another call and did paperwork, said Chief John Gorski.
A short time after returning home, he experienced chest pains. He was taken to a hospital for treatment. During surgery, Paterson died.
The 36-year volunteer was active with many events with the department. "He was someone you could always count on," the chief said.
This is the first line-of-duty death for the fire company that has 24 members. Firefighters from neighboring departments have called to lend support.
Visitation will be held from 6-8 p.m. Thursday, and 2-4 and 6-9 on Friday at Maryville Funeral Home. A firefighter memorial service will be conducted at 8 p.m. Friday.
Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday.
