the staff of the Ridgewood blog
Westwood Nj, Westwood volunteer firefighter died Monday, a week after he responded to a large house fire , the Westwood Volunteer Fire Department stated.
In Westwood, “our cup (generally) runneth over.” But today, and for the last two weeks, Westwood was a reservoir of sadness, a crucible brimming with tears.
Death, as the superstition anticipates, came in threes – tragically taking these young residents: William Borgensen (21), Kevin May (29), and Joseph Ancona (20).
At today’s service for Kevin, I couldn’t help but note a sad irony. Earlier this month, when I was last at the firehouse for the annual Inspection Dinner, I’d mentioned that as we were just beginning to gather, Will Borgensen’s wake was just concluding down the block. I said Will’s family needed the borough’s support and I knew they could count on the WVFD volunteers to provide it.
That was the last time I saw Kevin, one of the volunteers our town’s families could always count on. Kevin was a big kid, made mostly of heart.
When I was informed that his heart had betrayed him, and he’d passed, I instructed that the borough’s flags be flown at half mast, in recognition of his line of duty death.
As mayor, I’ve only done that two other times: for NYPD Officers Jason Rivera and Wilbert Mora. And for the 13 U.S. Marines, killed in Afghanistan. Our Kevin was sent off in good company, accompanied by “the finest,” in the bosom of “the bravest”.
Kevin was quiet (except when he wasn’t) and always unassuming. His father, George, told me so many people came forward to share personal stories of how Kevin had helped them, the many kindnesses he’d shown them. George had no idea. And he was amazed at the outpouring of support and affection the entire town had shown his family.
George should not have been surprised. Heroes come in all shapes, sizes, and quietude. Empty barrels make the most noise. Still waters run deep.
Kevin earned every minute of the loving reciprocity he received from his peers and the town. And George and Alison , who’d raised such a beloved boy, deserved no less for their son.
Kevin was always there for Westwood whether in fire service working a mutual aid call or, off duty, at town wide charity events that brought our community together.
Kevin chose to spend the time God had given him in service to others. And now he is at rest, in the arms of the angels.
Kevin will be deeply missed. The Firehouse will feel deflated and hollow in his absence. But in Westwood he will always be dearly remembered.
Ray Arroyo
Westwood Mayor
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Clot shot.