Our condolences to the Mickle family and the Massachusetts Wildfire Crew. FireFighter Wayne Mickle, 48, a 27 year veteran Pittsfield Forest Fire Patrolmen died Friday August 15, 2003. Wayne was one of 200 firefighters battling the Boles Meadow fire in Missoula, Montana. He had told his wife in a phone call after coming off the fireline that he wasn't feeling well. Wayne was found deceased in his tent the next morning of an apparent heart attack.

     Wayne was among a group of Massachusetts firefighters who were honored at the statehouse by state and federal officials in 2000 for fighting the severe blazes in Idaho, Montana, Texas and Wyoming that same year.

     Our brother Wayne leaves behind his wife, Leslie; his three sons, Matthew, Patrick, and Andrew; and his daughter Megan. Calling hours will be held for Wayne on Monday August 18, 2003 4-7PM at Dwyer Funeral Home in Pittsfield. A funeral will be held for Wayne on Tuesday August 19, 2003 11AM at Dwyer Funeral Home in Pittsfield. Wayne's remains are to be cremated and scattered on Massachusett's highest peak, Mount Greylock, where his wedding took place. A memorial fund has been established and donations can be made to: