Big Tree Holds Memorial Service in Remembrance of Deceased Firefighters

With the sun shining and a warm breeze blowing, members of the Big Tree Fire Company joined together to conduct an outdoor memorial service in remembrance of their deceased firefighters. Eighty firefighters were remembered in the hour-long memorial service. Erie County Fire Chaplain Joseph Bayne conducted a catholic mass which preceded the somber memorial service.

During the service, the names of all eighty deceased firefighters were read out loud. A single carnation representing each deceased firefighter was placed inside a fire boot to signify their absence while a bell was sounded in their honor. An honor guard stood-by at the memorial grounds along with the active members of the Big Tree Fire Company. In attendance were the surviving family members of many of the deceased.

This year, Big Tree laid to rest two longtime firefighters, Bob Kryszak and John Makin, Sr. A moment of silence was held in remembrance of these two men. Their names were etched into the memorial stones that are the centerpiece of the Big Tree Memorial Grounds.

Following the mass and memorial service, a family-style breakfast was served. Illio Dipaolo's provided the food which was enjoyed by all.

Each year, the Big Tree Fire Company conducts this memorial service on the Sunday following Memorial Day. A special thanks goes out to Father Joseph Bayne and all the members of the Big Tree Fire Company for a job well done.