Firefighter John McAvoy
Ladder 3

Memorial Service was
held on September 29, 2001

ODE to John McAvoy by Micahel McAvoy

To know my brother John is to have an opinion of him. He was steadfast in his convictions and never wavered from them.
My opinion of John, and I am sure everyone here would agree, he gave a lot more of himself then he received. I don't think it is a stretch to say that John put all of us ahead of himself. His helping hands and warm heart touched many of us gathered here and countless people even he did not know.

John was my older brother, a label he wore with much honor. John took the older brother responsibility very seriously. I always felt confident and secure knowing John was there. If I had a problem, it was his problem too. He never gave up on me when there were times I gave up on myself. Part of me wanted to grow out from under his wings, most of me wanted and needed his care, guidance and protection, not to mention his delicious linguine and clam sauce.

John was more than a hero firefighter, a doting husband, a caring father, a loving son, a tireless hockey coach and a protective older brother. He was the cook at the annual family picnic. He was also everyone's "Mr. Fix It".

His love for his fellow man and the passion with which he lived his life, I truly admire. John McAvoy was bigger than life itself. Shoes many of us could never fill. He was the dream son every parent would cherish. Parents who have a few children, say they don't have a favorite. I can easily say that he was the overwhelming favorite, he is my favorite too!!

John, if it hadn't been for growing up with you, I wouldn't be the person I am today. I want you to know how much I admire your courage, respect you as a man and love you as a brother. Thanks for all the love, laughter and protection you have given all of us. John thanks for being you.

USA Today Article about Ladder Co 3
Letter from Kathy Detrano
SI Advance Article

Poem tribute to John McAvoy