‘It’s a tragic loss’: Funeral procession honors fallen Cape fire engineer

A funeral procession was held Thursday morning for fallen Cape fire engineer, Michael Camelo Jr.

The 37-year-old father suffered from a brain aneurysm on June 2, officials said. He left behind two young children.

“It’s a tragic loss and we felt that pain today,” said Cape Coral Fire Department chief Ryan Lamb.

MORE: Officials announce final arrangements for fallen Cape fire engineer

Dillon Etherson, a family friend of Camelo’s, remembered him fondly.

“He was a fighter. He was fiery. He was passionate,” Etherson said. “He loved recklessly and pursued his dream with no hesitation.”

The procession followed Veteran’s Parkway across the Midpoint Bridge and started at 10:15 a.m. Drivers needed to plan an alternate route if driving in that area between 10:15 a.m. and 10:45 a.m.

Lamb expressed his appreciation for the community support.

“The show of support from the community … I cant even say just the fire department family,” Lamb said. “It’s EMS, law enforcement, the show of support has been fantastic.”

Camelo’s friends and family said he loved his job, and Lamb added he’ll be remembered for years to come.

“His impact is gonna be far and outlast his life,” Lamb said. “He’s touched many so were gonna continue to remember him.”