Kevin McDonald

     Kevin McDonald... words cannot adequately express who he was and what he stood for. In the papers, Kevin was called a professional, respected by his peers. Even this doesn't seem to portray the true Kevin.

     The Kevin we all know is much more; to his parents, he was a loving son. To Kathleen, Deborah, and Mark, a caring brother. To Robin, a devoted husband. To Kelly and Robert, a dedicated father. To others, he was a neighbor, a friend, a good samaritan. A hero.

And That's Just The Beginning

     As a person, Kevin possessed qualities that set him apart from others. He was brave; even in a profession where bravery is commonplace.

Kevin's Courage Stood Out

     He was kind; Kevin always had time for people, be it a friend, a co-worker who needed help, or kids visiting the firehouse, he never missed an opportunity to lend a hand.

     He had tremendous integrity; Kevin's word was as good as gold, a contract. You needed no more.

     He was responsible and dedicated to his family, his friends, his job. Kevin always fulfilled his obligations and more.

     Kevin was loyal; if he was with you - he was with you 100%, period.

     He was resourceful; it didn't matter what the job was or the challenge, Kevin could always find a way to get the job done.

     He was tenacious; Kevin did not know the meaning of the word quit. He was a doer, while others talked, Kevin got it done.

     He had humility; Kevin never talked of his good deeds, or called attention to himself. He always supported others and worked as part of a team.

     He had a sense of humor; Kevin never shied away from a practical joke, he may have even instigated one or two.

     I could add many more qualities, each more appropriate then the last. But as I said, it still would not be a sufficient description of Kevin McDonald. He was, plain and simple, a great man.

     We have all suffered a profound loss. It is an injury that may never completely heal. But if we can each take from here a small piece of the qualities that made Kevin - Kevin, and apply them to our own lives and practice them, maybe we can keep the memory of our friend, our son, our husband, our father, our brother, and our hero alive.